Uy, Monsalve rebound, lead Pinays charge in TLPGA qualifiers

MANILA, Philippines — Daniella Uy carded an even-par 72, while Marvi Monsalve shot a one-over 73, positioning themselves as strong contenders for LPGA of Taiwan (TLPGA) cards at the TLPGA Tour Qualifying tournament at the Suncity Golf Club in Guanxi Township, Hsinchu County, Taiwan, which kicked off on Tuesday.

Eager to bounce back from missed cut performances at last week’s Party Golfers Open at Lily Golf and Country Club, also in Hsinchu, Uy and Monsalve delivered resilient rounds. Uy claimed a share of seventh place, while Monsalve tied for 14th after the first round of the 54-hole eliminations for the 2025 TLPGA Tour cards.

Uy showcased her determination with a strong back-nine performance, recovering from a birdie-less 38 on the front side. She tallied three birdies against one bogey in her final eight holes, including birdies on the par-5 16th and 18th holes, to finish just three strokes behind Japanese leader Hinata Osada, who posted a three-under 69.

Osada leads by one stroke over compatriot Karin Hanada and two others.

Meanwhile, Monsalve displayed steady play, carding three birdies against four bogeys to remain within striking distance. She is tied for 14th with six others, four shots off the pace heading into the final 36 holes.

The top 20 finishers, excluding ties, will secure eligibility for the 2025 TLPGA Tour. In the case of ties, rankings will be determined based on the final round scores, and if needed, scores on the back nine and then the front nine will serve as tiebreakers.

While Uy and Monsalve bolstered their chances, other Filipina contenders faced challenging starts. Florence Bisera shot a three-over 75, leaving her tied for 36th. Mafy Singson struggled with a 76 for joint 52nd, and Kayla Nocum managed a 77, putting her in a tie for 61st.