Manila: The province of Ilocos Norte is investing in sports programs like tennis to develop future stars like Alexandra Eala with the return of Tennis on Wheels Philippines on May 27-29 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Sports Stadium tennis court. "Open to 12 years old and below, the AMB tennis clinic aims to help young learners build their skills, discipline, confidence, and sportsmanship through tennis," said Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Eugenio Angelo Barba. Barba, a tennis player himself who initiated the clinic, said in an interview Friday that registration is now ongoing.

According to Philippines News Agency, last March, the same group facilitated free coaching sessions for young and adult participants at the Marcos Stadium. This resulted in the creation of a local tennis club to sustain the love for the sport. Barba emphasized that having an active tennis club in the province is an advantage, as they can also be members of the Philippine Tennis Association, gaining voting rights and the ability to hold national tournaments.

"I express hope that by enticing children to play tennis, they will learn valuable lessons that extend far beyond the court," Barba said. "I believe that sport is an investment in the overall well-being of an individual, and the best way is to start them young."