Baguio city: Ronee Dungca carded a three-over-par 72 to take a commanding lead after 18 holes of the girls' 7-10 division in the John Hay JPGT Championship in Baguio City on Tuesday. The nine-year-old from Angeles City, coming off back-to-back victories at Riviera and Pradera Verde, boosted her chance of securing one of four berths to the Elite Junior Finals.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dungca expressed determination in tackling the challenging course, stating, "The course is tough, so I had to stay focused to keep making birdies. I still need to work on my putting, but I'm feeling a little more confident." Her performance resulted in an eight-shot lead over Tyra Garingalao, who scored an 80, with Amiya Tablac at 83 and Venus delos Santos at 92.

Dungca's current standing in the series is tied for fifth with Penelope Sy at 30 points. Another win in this tournament would elevate her to 45 points, potentially matching the current leader, Mavis Espedido. The final round is crucial as only the top three scores of each player are counted for qualification. Points are awarded as follows: 15 points for a win, followed by 12, 10, and eight points for the subsequent top finishers.

Winter Serapio (37 points), Delos Santos (34), and Garingalao (32) remain in contention, making the upcoming final round a pivotal moment in the tournament.

In the boys' division, Zoji Edoc shot a two-over 71, securing a three-shot lead over local competitor Marco Angheng, who posted a 74. Michael Matias of Quezon City and Samuel Ababa both carded an 82, while Jethro Bayron ended the round with a 99. Edoc, already qualified for the national finals with 45 points alongside three-leg winner Zach Guico, commented, "I was hitting solid shots with my driver and irons."

The North vs South Elite Junior Finals is scheduled to take place from October 7-10 at The Country Club in Laguna.