Manila, Philippines – The Philippine Open is poised for a significant elevation in the world of professional golf, securing a place on The International Series schedule starting in 2026. This move, fueled by a partnership with BingoPlus, promises to bring a new level of prestige and competition to the historic tournament, while also strengthening the pathway for Filipino golfers to the LIV Golf League. The announcement signals a growing investment in golf within the Philippines and a commitment to showcasing the country as a premier destination for the sport.
The International Series, backed by LIV Golf, is designed to elevate golf’s presence in emerging markets, and the inclusion of the BingoPlus Philippine Open is a testament to the growing passion for the game in the region. Last year’s International Series event in the Philippines demonstrated the country’s enthusiastic fanbase, drawing significant crowds and positive attention. This momentum has paved the way for the Philippine Open to join a circuit that features some of the world’s top players, offering a crucial stepping stone towards the lucrative LIV Golf League.
The 2026 tournament is already shaping up to be a compelling event, potentially featuring a unique showdown between two defending champions. Miguel Tabuena, a two-time Philippine Open winner (2015 and 2018) and currently a full-time LIV Golf League Wild Card, will return to compete. He could be joined by the 2025 Philippine Open champion, Julien Sale, creating a rare opportunity to witness a battle between the reigning champions on one of the country’s most esteemed courses.
A Historic Tournament Gains Global Recognition
The Philippine Open boasts a rich history, dating back to 1966, and has long been considered the national championship of golf in the Philippines. The tournament has hosted numerous international stars over the years, but its inclusion in The International Series represents a new era of visibility and competitiveness. According to Rahul Singh, Head of The International Series, elevating the Philippine Open was a “natural next step,” designed to “strengthen a historic national tournament while creating greater opportunity for players through our global pathway.”
This elevation isn’t just about attracting top international talent; it’s also about providing a platform for Filipino golfers to shine. Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO of the Asian Tour, highlighted Tabuena’s success as a prime example. “It all points to a key period of growth in one of our favourite destinations, evidenced by Miguel Tabuena becoming the first-ever player from the Philippines to accept his place on the lucrative LIV Golf League, largely thanks to his performance at last year’s International Series Philippines.” The Asian Tour has enjoyed a decades-long relationship with the Philippine Open and the National Golf Association of the Philippines, and this partnership is expected to continue to flourish.
BingoPlus’ Role in Elevating Philippine Golf
The partnership with BingoPlus, a prominent gaming and entertainment company in the Philippines, has been instrumental in securing the tournament’s future and attracting The International Series. Jasper Vicencio, President of BingoPlus at AB Leisure Exponent Inc., stated that the company “saw the impact The International Series can have on golf in the Philippines” and is “proud to continue this journey and play a role in elevating the Philippine Open onto the global stage.” BingoPlus’ investment underscores a broader trend of corporate support for sports development in the country.
The financial backing from BingoPlus, combined with the organizational expertise of the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP), has been crucial in attracting The International Series. Martin Lorenzo, President of the NGAP, emphasized that the elevation “presents a valuable platform for our local professionals to compete alongside leading international talent, while showcasing the strength and growth of Philippine golf.”
Manila Southwoods to Host the 2026 Event
The 2026 BingoPlus Philippine Open will be held at the Masters course of Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club. Robert John Sobrepeña, Chairman of Manila Southwoods, expressed his honor in hosting the prestigious event, stating the club’s management will “do everything possible to ensure a successful event and present the course in the best possible condition for world-class golf.” Manila Southwoods is a well-respected venue known for its challenging layout and immaculate conditions, making it an ideal location for a tournament of this caliber.
The Masters course at Manila Southwoods has previously hosted numerous significant golf events, and its selection as the venue for the 2026 Philippine Open demonstrates its continued commitment to supporting the growth of the sport. The club’s facilities and experienced staff are well-equipped to handle the demands of a world-class tournament, ensuring a positive experience for both players and spectators.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Philippine Golf
The inclusion of the BingoPlus Philippine Open on The International Series schedule marks a pivotal moment for golf in the Philippines. It not only elevates the tournament’s profile but also provides a crucial pathway for Filipino golfers to compete on the global stage. The success of Miguel Tabuena, who earned his LIV Golf League Wild Card through his performance in the International Series Philippines, serves as an inspiration for aspiring golfers across the country.
The next step will be the continued development of grassroots golf programs in the Philippines, aimed at nurturing young talent and building a sustainable pipeline of future champions. The NGAP, in collaboration with BingoPlus and the Asian Tour, is expected to announce further initiatives in the coming months to support this goal. Fans can anticipate further details regarding the 2026 tournament, including the full field of players and ticketing information, to be released by the tournament organizers in the fall of 2025.
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