GenSan steps up business permit checks on pickleball craze

KORONADAL CITY — The city government of General Santos (GenSan) has stepped up the inspections of pickleball courts as the sports craze continues to grow in popularity, with authorities checking whether operators have valid business permits or licenses.The City Mayor’s Office-Business Permits and Licensing Division (BPLD) launched “Operation Pickleball Hunt” to check pickleball courts, facilities, and operators for compliance with business requirements.The city welcomed the growing number of businesses catering to pickleball players, but stressed that operators must comply with local requirements before doing business.

READ: Why is the world obsessed with pickleball?“We are happy that there are businesses like these coming into our city,” Atty. Rowi Arbilon P. Malayag, head of the BPLD, said in a local radio interview.The BPLD, in an advisory posted early this week, urged pickleball court owners or operators to ensure that their business permits and licenses are updated and properly displayed to avoid disruptions to their operations or even legal action.Malayag acknowledged that pickleball has become increasingly popular among residents, with many taking up the sport for recreation and relieving stress.He said the inspections are also intended to ensure that facilities are safe for players and that businesses operating them are legitimate.Based on the BPLD’s initial findings, around 40 pickleball operators or establishments in the city are operating without valid business permits.

Only 11 operators were issued valid permits, he added.Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao said the initiative is not solely about inspections, as the city is also offering assistance to operators who need to secure or update their permits.Owners and operators who need assistance may visit the BPLD temporary office at Dadiangas West Central Elementary School from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for inquiries and requirements related to securing permits./coa