That makes the four-day event, set for Jan. 27-30, truly a tournament to watch as the likes of Tonton Asistio, Michael Bibat and GT Laguatan go up against fancied Juvic Pagunsan, Marvin Dumandan, Artemio Murakami, Paul Minoza, Boyet Saragoza and defending champion Abe Rosal in the chase for top honors at the north course of the Cangolf complex in Laguna.
On a regular basis, the National Golf Association of the Phils. evaluates the performances of these players every six months with the upcoming event high on the list since it features the cream of the crop and the promising players to have come out of the jungolf ranks.
The top players after a series of tournaments will earn berths in the national pool where the members of the RP squad competing in various international competitions will be culled.
At stakes in the event, sponsored for the ninth year by the world’s leading express and logistics provider DHL Express and brought to you by WWW Express, are trophies and gift certificates for the champions, runners-up and third placers in both the men’s and ladies’ divisions. The best daily individual scorers will also receive special prizes.
At the same time, the 54-hole ladies tournament also promises to be an interesting battle with former RP Ladies Open champion Carmelette Villaroman heading the elite cast that includes Lora Roberto, Lucy Landicho, Tracy Locsin, Lina de Guzman, Ramijin Camping and ace jungolfer Jayvie Agojo.
Also seeing action in the men’s event are veteran campaigners Rolando Viray, Jose Mari Hechanova, Jimmy Feliciano and Tommy Manotoc
Meanwhile, deadline for registration is set at 12 noon today.