CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Simon Wahing and Ally Gaccion showcased their readiness for the upcoming ICTSI Junior PGT Match Play Championship by claiming victories in their respective categories at the conclusion of the JPGT Mindanao Series 4 on Thursday.
Wahing won the boys’ 16-18 age group, while Gaccion dominated the girls’ premier division, securing their spots in the national finals.
Wahing, despite a challenging final round where he carded an 80, finished with a 72-hole total of 308. His competitors, Cliff Nuñeza and John Rey Oro, were unable to capitalize on Wahing’s early struggles.
Nuñeza posted a 78 for a total of 314, while Oro finished with a 79, leaving both tied at 26-over but Nuñeza took the runner-up honors via countback.
Reflecting on his performance, Wahing acknowledged the need for improvement as he prepares for the national finals.
“My driving and pitch shots are solid, but I really need to work on my putting. I missed a lot of four-footers today (Thursday),” said the 17-year-old from Del Monte.
Gaccion, meanwhile, delivered a commanding performance, ending with a second consecutive 72, bringing her total to four-over 292. Her strong finish included four birdies, underscoring her readiness for the year-end finale.
“I had a good round and a strong finish, except for the last hole. Overall, I’m really pleased with my game today,” said Gaccion, who highlighted her round with a chip-in birdie on the ninth hole.
Both Wahing and Gaccion will be heading to the national finals, scheduled for October 1-4 at The Country Club in Canlubang.
Joining them will be other top qualifiers from the Visayas and Mindanao series, including Aldrien Gialon and Crista Miñoza.
The final phase of the Luzon series is set to begin on August 20 at Luisita, with subsequent legs at Mount Malarayat and Sherwood Hills, which will determine the remaining finalists for the national showdown.
