Mandaluyong city: As part of the government's sport tourism campaign, the Philippines will host a leg of the 2026 Asian Tour Series from February 5 to 8 at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club in Mandaluyong City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the event, with a total cash purse of USD500,000 (PHP29.6 million), is expected to attract top players from the Asian Tour, including the leading Filipino professionals. This event will once again put the Philippines in the international spotlight.
In a news release on Thursday, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick 'Pato' Gregorio, who heads the National Sports Tourism-Inter Agency Committee (NST-IAC), highlighted sports tourism as a crucial tool for economic growth, cultural exchange, and global recognition.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. established the NST-IAC in November last year through Administrative Order No. 38, with Malaca±ang already approving the hosting. National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) Chairman Al Panlilio expressed excitement about partnering once again with the Philippine Sports Commission, emphasizing alignment in plans to elevate sports for Filipino athletes.
NGAP Secretary-General Bones Floro mentioned that they are in the process of finalizing all major arrangements for the prestigious international tournament. A Pro-Am tournament is scheduled for February 4, featuring teams of three amateurs and one professional from the official tournament roster, with practice rounds on February 2 and 3.
The Asian Tour is globally recognized, and its tournament results contribute to the Official World Golf Ranking. A full field of 144 players is expected for the Philippine leg, led by 97 Asian Tour members, 25 local professionals, six national amateurs, and four invites each from the NGAP, Asian Tour, venue host, and sponsors.
Last October, the Philippines hosted the International Series Philippines, also part of the Asian Tour and a pathway to the lucrative LIV Golf. Major champions Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Charl Schwartzel, and Louis Oosthuizen participated in the event, which was dominated by Filipino Miguel Tabuena. Tabuena, currently ranked No. 3 on the Asian Tour, earned USD360,000 (PHP21 million) in the biggest victory of his professional career.
