The Badminton World Federation is hoping to work together with the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee to improve Philippine badminton.
The Badminton World Federation recently expressed desire to aid the growth of badminton in the Philippines during a meeting of sports officials in Thailand.
In a lunch hosted by BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul during SEA Games 2025, discussions were made on efforts of the international body to help Philippine badminton athletes — especially at the grassroots level.
Leeswadtrakul met with both Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio and Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino in a restaurant in Bangkok to discuss possible plans.
The Philippines has been lagging in terms of growing the national team program, with the team unable to nab a medal in the recently concluded biennial meet.
The country sent 16 athletes to the SEA Games where they were unable to get a podium finish.
For Leeswadtrakul, it is important for the Philippines to work on its badminton program from the ground, while the BWF hopes to aid in the development with their own initiatives.
“I would like for you to also help developing the players to become the top class of badminton. Badminton is a very accessible sport and this is the best way to promote badminton in your country because you consider kids and children very important,” she said.
“Badminton is the only sport that can develop physically and mentally of all kids and children. So let's help each other to develop badminton in your country,” she added.
While concrete details of the partnership remain unclear at the moment, the idea of having the BWF interested in aiding the country does make the future upbeat.
Though the team was unable to get a medal in the recent SEA Games, the Philippine shuttlers did show potential in the competition which can be tapped by the proposed programs.
—
Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.