Manila: Promising rookie Carl Corpus carded a 69 to seize the lead in the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship on Wednesday. Corpus delivered a crucial two-birdie finish in his last nine holes, recording a 35-34 to achieve a nine-under 135 aggregate.

According to Philippines News Agency, Corpus expressed that he struck the ball more effectively on Tuesday. Sharing the first-round lead with Angelo Que, Corpus stated, "I prepared and executed the same way today, but I had a few errant shots and less solid executions." He emphasized focusing on what could still be done right, leading to successful putts and a strong finish, particularly with birdies on Nos. 12 and 15 to end with a 34.

Meanwhile, Angelo Que carded a 70, positioning himself in a joint second place at 136. Que noted the improvement in his play compared to the previous day, despite missing several putts. "I know I still shot two-under but it could've easily gone very low," he commented, hoping to address his putting issues in the next round.

Joining Que at the second spot were Jhonnel Ababa, who delivered an eagle-spiked 67, and Korean golfer Ji Sung Cheon, who achieved a 66. A total of forty-five players moved on to the final 36 holes, with five making the cut at one-over 145, including Art Arbole (69), Gabriel Manotoc (72), Luigi Wong (73), Gerald Rosales (73), and Korean Tae Won Ha (74).

In the women's division, Sarah Ababa recorded a 70 to share the lead with Chihiro Ikeda and Princess Superal. Ababa maintained her position at the top with a second consecutive two-under card, totaling 140. Ikeda fired a 68, while Superal managed a 69. Ababa expressed satisfaction with her iron shots, hitting 17 greens, and mentioned a birdie on the 18th that boosted her confidence going into the next round.

Defending champion Harmie Constantino scored a 69, and Florence Bisera achieved a 71, placing them in joint second at 142. Martina Mi±oza carded a 72 for a 143 aggregate, while first-round leader Kim Seo Yun slid to seventh with a 75 and a 144 total.