Friendship was in the air as the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) hosted the New Year’s Cup golf tournament last Monday at the Orchard Golf and Country Club.

Taiwan Ambassador Wallace Chow delivered the ceremonial tee to welcome around 200 Taiwanese and Filipino golfers to fun day of camaraderie and unity in the fairway.

Chow said he sees golf not just a competitive sport but also a tool to forge meaningful friendships among stakeholders and community leaders of the two countries.

“Golf is a very good sport because it binds people together. During the four to five hours of playing, people get to know each other,” Chow said following the successful staging of the event participated by Taiwanese and Filipino business and civic leaders, including DAILY TRIBUNE president Willie Fernandez.

“Friendship is also strengthened so I like playing golf.”

Chow said he wants the tournament to be held every January to celebrate their Republic Day — their country’s foundation day — that coincides with New Year’s Day.

“This golf tournament is usually held in October to celebrate Taiwan’s National Day. Unfortunately, typhoon “Katrina” happened and we postponed it to January,” Chow, who also heads TECO in the country, said.

“January is usually a dry and cool season so we enjoyed it. Holding the tournament in January is a good thing because it is cooler and we also celebrate the founding anniversary of our country.”

The distinguished envoy failed to mention his scores.

But it doesn’t matter. The important thing is the friendship and camaraderie he forged from the tee box to the green.