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| University golf sensation Rianne Malixi and Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP) President Oliver Gan played a round of golf at the Dragons Landing of Hann Reserve in New Clark City, Angeles, Pampanga. (Image Source: Manila Standard/Junior Golf Foundation Of The Philippines) |
Aspiring golfers from the grassroots level, particularly high school standouts from the provinces, now have a clearer pathway to collegiate competition and potential scholarships following the launch of a new college division by the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP). The initiative was unveiled last June 6, 2026 at the Mount Malarayat Golf and Country Club in Lipa City, Batangas, expanding the JGFP’s existing program that previously covered only elementary and high school categories.
The move aligns with a broader effort led by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) through their joint project “Fairways To The Future” which aims to develop young Filipino golfers and help them reach elite levels. With the addition of the college division, the JGFP provides players with opportunities to continue competing at a high level while pursuing higher education, especially with golf now included in the sports programs of both the UAAP and NCAA. “It’s a great move. Indeed, this is ‘Fairways To The Future’ and I’m glad to see stakeholders not only supporting the initiative but improving on it,” said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio. NGAP President Al Panlilio said the expansion marks a significant step in strengthening the development pathway for young golfers, stating, “It provides additional opportunities for those aspiring to earn placements and scholarships in UAAP and NCAA member schools. The JGFP is helping create a more seamless transition from junior golf to higher education, while encouraging talented young players — particularly those from the provinces — to pursue both their academic and athletic goals.” Panlilio added that the initiative will increase exposure for promising golfers and connect them with institutions offering competitive golf programs, stating, “We commend the JGFP for its continued commitment to developing young talent and creating more opportunities for Filipino golfers to excel both in the classroom and on the course.”
Many young Filipino golfers aspire to compete in the US NCAA following the path of Duke University standout Rianne Malixi, a product of the JGFP. For those who opt to stay in the country, the UAAP and NCAA now present viable alternatives. JGFP President and former junior standout Oliver Gan said the new division is also designed to give college golfers more playing opportunities to sharpen their skills, stating, “The idea is to provide them with more chances to compete so they can improve their game. By the time they play in the UAAP and NCAA, we want to see them performing at a high level.” Around 70 players took part in the inaugural college tournament with more events planned for golfers aged up to 25 years old. John Rey Oro of the University of Perpetual Help topped the men’s division with an even-par 72, finishing four strokes ahead of Arvin Christian Ong of De La Salle University (76). John Gabriel Canlas, also of De La Salle, placed third with an 80. In the women’s division, Jianna Sophia Ysabelle Baquiran of the University of Santo Tomas carded a 104 to edge teammate Marian Ziga So and Rane Victoria Cabling of Mapua, who both shot 108. The JGFP hopes the new division will further bridge the gap between grassroots development and elite competition, reinforcing its long-term goal of producing world-class Filipino golfers.
