By Julian-Ray Fortaleza
Richmond, BC — On May 18, 2025, the Fil-Can Pickleball Club proudly hosted a Fundraising Pickleball Tournament at Pacific Pickleball in Richmond, bringing together players, sponsors, and supporters in a spirited effort to raise funds for the victims of the Lapu-Lapu Tragedy that occurred on April 26 in Vancouver.
The event was organized by Rico Cornejo of Golden Star Sports, Ben Lam of Pacific Pickleball, in collaboration with Lita Cabal, Former MP Conservative Candidate, and with the dedicated support of team captains namely Alsen David (Riverway), Mike Olango (SuperFrenz), GL Reyes (Dinkin Donuts), Allan Florendo (HaloHalo), Mario Cruz (Mario Cruz Real Estate), Bong Domdom (One La Salle Vancouver), Rico Cornejo (Golden Star) and Jose Crisologo (Team Calvary). The tournament brought together 120 participants across 8 teams, representing a diverse mix of nationalities — a testament to the inclusive and unifying nature of the sport.
The event featured both Intermediate and Advanced divisions, with Team Calvary claiming the Championship titles in both categories. Team Halo-Halo earned Runner- Up honors in both divisions. Highlighting the competition, Lita Cabal and her partner Joey also secured a victory in the Mixed Doubles category. Adding prestige to the event, the Fil-Can Pickleball Club was honored to welcome Marco Harder, Vice Consul from the Philippine Consulate in Vancouver, who graciously attended the tournament and personally awarded the winners during the closing ceremony.
The fundraising activities included a silent auction, 50/50 draw, and raffle prizes, supported by generous sponsors and community donors. Together, these efforts raised nearly $4,800, which will be donated to support the victims of the Lapu-Lapu Tragedy.
The recipient organization will be announced once finalized. “This event was more than just a tournament,” said organizer Rico Cornejo. “It was a celebration of unity, generosity, and the joy of sport. We’re proud of what we accomplished together.”
Lita Cabal added, “It was heartwarming to see people from different backgrounds coming together for a meaningful cause. Thank you to everyone who supported and joined us on the court!”
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors and Donors:
- Pacific Pickleball
- Rico Cornejo of Golden Star Sports
- Michael Cabal Real Estate
- Sun City Optics
- Ann Salazar Catering
- Rackets and Runners
- Emily Manlutac
- Holtz Woodworking
- Grit Pickleball
- Nilda Rivera
- Mario Cruz, PREC
- Xay Vong
- Ramon Segui of Artsy Candles
- Eat Kanadiyan
- Dine Kanadiyan
- Alsen David of AJ Insurance
The Fil-Can Pickleball Club extends its deepest gratitude to all sponsors, donors, volunteers, and participants who made this tournament a resounding success. Events like these showcase the strength of community and the power of sport in bringing people together for a meaningful cause.
ReyFort Media 
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