GAB raises red flag on padel body

MANILA, Philippines — The Games and Amusements Board (GAB) is demanding an explanation from the Philippine Padel Association (PPA) for failing to obtain a permit from the GAB for their recently concluded Padel Tennis event.

A letter dated Nov. 12, 2024, sent by the GAB Chairman’s office, acknowledged that the PPA held a Padel Tennis event with prize money amounting to P780,000.

However, current regulations require a permit from the GAB for such events or tournaments. GAB records show no permit issued to the PPA, indicating a violation.

The letter cited Presidential Decree (PD) No. 871, which states, “It shall be unlawful for any person, entity or association to conduct professional basketball games or other professional games without a permit duly issued by the Board.”

The GAB letter further clarified that any permit granted must clearly state the name of the individual, entity, or association to whom it is issued, along with the location, date, and time of the game or competition.

PD No. 871 prohibits any individual, entity, or association from hiring players, referees, scorers, timekeepers, or any other personnel involved in professional basketball games or other professional games without a license issued by the GAB.

The letter quoted GAB Resolution No. 98-10, entitled “Adopting Policy Guidelines for the Exercise of the Regulatory and Supervisory Powers of Games and Amusements Board over Professional Sports.