Just over a month after we first shared the formation of the National League for Billiards Sports of the Philippines (NLBSPH), the association is beginning to outline its plans for the future of Philippine billiards.

NLBSPH President Atty. Wharton Chan revealed that the association is developing its own website, which will eventually incorporate a national ranking system for Filipino players.

“We will be having our own website… and we will incorporate a ranking system in the Philippines,” Chan said during an interview.

The NLBSPH is also eyeing the staging of either a National Open or an International Open in March 2027. The proposed tournament remains in the planning stage, with the association currently coordinating with different stakeholders and seeking support from private sponsors for its programs.

A proper national ranking system would give Filipino players a clearer measure of their performances and more opportunities to earn recognition through organized competition.

I may sound like a broken record because I have repeatedly mentioned my hope of seeing a genuine national tournament and ranking system established in the Philippines. These plans are still being developed, but it is encouraging to finally see movement in that direction.

Looking at the results of the 2026 Asian Pool Championships, it is clear that the level of competition across Asia, especially in Southeast Asia, has greatly improved. This comes as no surprise, given how the sport has evolved in countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia.

If there were ever a better time for a federation to step in and help rejuvenate the state of billiards in our country, that time is now.