Kia backs tennis scholars

Kia Philippines has partnered with the Philippine Tennis Academy to support the development of young Filipino players through funding, equipment and access to tournaments.

The partnership was launched through the Play It Forward Fundraising Tournament in Alabang on September 3.

Kia, which operates under ACMobility, will provide the academy with P1 million each year. The funding will help cover tournament registration, travel and accommodation expenses for the academy’s scholars.

The program is expected to support more than 30 scholar participations in tennis competitions. This will give the players more opportunities to gain match experience and test their skills against other competitors.

Ten selected scholars will also receive individual development funds. The assistance will cover equipment and coaching as the players continue their training under the academy.

Kia will also support community tennis clinics and tournaments. These activities are intended to introduce more young players to the sport and help the academy identify potential athletes.

The Philippine Tennis Academy develops players through structured coaching and competition. The latest funding will ease some of the costs tied to tournament participation, particularly travel and accommodation.

These expenses can limit how often developing athletes compete outside their usual training environment. Regular tournament exposure gives players a chance to apply what they have learned during coaching sessions and adjust to different opponents.

The partnership brings together Kia Philippines, the academy and the Play It Forward initiative. Philippine Tennis Academy founder and chairman Rommie Chan joined Kia Philippines marketing director Patrick Manigbas and representatives of Play It Forward during the launch.

Academy directors Joey Torres, Andy Maglipon, Tonico Climent and Raymond Suarez also attended, together with Play It Forward representatives Nathania delos Reyes, Esther Ong-Lim and Kristine Yeung.

Kia Philippines said the program reflects its broader support for local communities. The automaker currently operates through a network of 38 dealerships across the country.