A high-stakes showdown kicks off today, Feb. 18, as a mix of local contenders, former national team standouts, and seasoned pros brace for a grueling four-day battle against a formidable foreign contingent, all vying for coveted Philippine Golf Tour (PGT) cards.
The Qualifying School, held at the challenging Splendido Taal Golf Club in Laurel, Batangas, will put players’ shotmaking, putting, and mental toughness to the test on a course known for swirling winds and unpredictable conditions.
With only 30 out of 112 players securing spots in the upcoming PGT season, the competition is an all-or-nothing battle.
Homegrown Talents Take on Global Contenders
Leading the local charge are Carl Corpus, Jacob Rolida, and Luis Castro, alongside veteran campaigners and former leg winners such as Robert Pactolerin, Rufino Bayron, Rey Pagunsan, Anthony Fernando, Edward Reyes, and Ernie Rellon.
Their experience and familiarity with local conditions could give them an edge in the competition.
The field also features rising Filipino talents, including John Michael Uy, Jonas Magcalayo, Paolo Wong, and Josh Jorge, eager to make their mark on the country’s premier golf circuit.
Meanwhile, seasoned players Orlan Sumcad, Richard Sinfuego, and Ramil Bisera add further intensity to the already stacked competition.
International Players Eye PGT Spots
The local challengers will face stiff competition from a 38-strong foreign contingent, led by two-time Q-School topnotcher and Tour leg winner Toru Nakajima of Japan.
Joining him are top golfers from Korea, Japan, Myanmar, Bahrain, Finland, Australia, and the US, all determined to earn their place on the PGT.
Among them are Japanese aces Kota Fukuyama and Atsushi Ueda, Korean standouts Myungchal Hwang, Kim Tae Won, Sanghyun Park, and Lee Song, as well as American Riley Keagle and Australian Toby Walker.
Their presence adds an international flair to the competition, ensuring a heated race for the limited Tour cards.
PGT 2025 Season Set for Action-Packed Start
The new PGT season, sponsored by ICTSI and backed by official apparel Kampfortis Golf, promises an exciting 10-leg calendar.
It kicks off with the Pradera Verde Championship on Feb. 23-27 in Lubao, Pampanga, followed by the Eagle Ridge Classic in Cavite on March 9-13.
The circuit, organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., then moves to:
- Caliraya Springs Golf Club, Laguna (March 25-28)
- Forest Hills Golf Club, Antipolo (June 2-6)
- Valley Golf Club, Antipolo (July 22-25)
The first half of the season will set the stage for the country’s top and emerging golfers, as they battle for supremacy in the Philippines’ premier professional golf tour.
With the pressure mounting and the stakes higher than ever, expect a fierce battle of skill, strategy, and endurance, as hopefuls from around the world fight for their rightful place in the PGT.
