ICTSI The Country Club Invitational Kicks Off PGT Season with Top Philippine Golfers

ICTSI The Country Club Invitational Kicks Off PGT Season with Top Philippine Golfers | Daily Tribune

The ICTSI The Country Club Invitational marks its 20th staging on 28 to 31 January, bringing together the Philippines’ top golfing talents in a high-stakes battle at the challenging TCC course in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The P6-million championship promises intense rivalries, dramatic moments and surprises on every hole, setting the tone for a thrilling new season of the Philippine Golf Tour.

As one of the most prestigious events in local golf, the TCC Invitational gathers an elite field of competitors, including the Top 30 players from last year’s PGT Order of Merit (OOM) and past champions, including international campaigners like Miguel Tabuena. The event offers not just substantial prizes but also immense prestige, with the TCC course standing as the ultimate test of skill and resilience.

Tony Lascuña, who edged out Tabuena to claim victory in last year’s edition, enters the tournament as the favorite. His dominance in the 2024 season, which saw him claim his fifth OOM title — a record feat — demonstrates his remarkable consistency and ability to thrive against younger challengers.

With a career that spans decades, the Davaoeño ace continues to inspire as he seeks another milestone victory.

Tabuena, one of the Philippines’ top international players, is expected to return for another shot at glory. A previous TCC Invitational champion (2017), he aims to redeem narrow losses to Micah Shin in 2018 and Lascuña.

However, a potential scheduling conflict with the International Series India could sideline Tabuena, adding an intriguing twist to the competition.

Even in Tabuena’s absence, the tournament remains fiercely competitive. Guido van der Valk, winner in 2020 and 2023, leads a formidable group of challengers.

Angelo Que, a three-time TCC champion, is also a strong favorite after finishing second to Lascuña in the 2024 OOM race, while rising stars and seasoned players alike, including Reymon Jaraula, Keanu Jahns, Rupert Zaragosa, Clyde Mondilla, Jhonnel Ababa and new Asian Tour card holder Sean Ramos, are also in the fold, ensuring a thrilling competition and a showcase of skill and determination from the cream of the country’s pro crop.

Launched in 2003 by ICTSI chairman Ricky Razon to honor his father and ICTSI founder Don Pocholo, the TCC Invitational has grown into an annual showcase of the country’s finest golfing talents.

After a hiatus in 2015-16 and 2021-22, the tournament returns stronger than ever, offering a top prize of P2 million and promising unforgettable moments on the country’s toughest course.