As the 76th Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub approaches next month in Bacolod City, all eyes are on the two powerhouse teams vying for the coveted regular championship — the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club and Eastridge Golf Club.

Manila Southwoods, the defending champion, is aiming for a fourth straight title. At the same time, Eastridge enters the tournament with newfound confidence following its impressive victory at the Fil-Am Invitational in Baguio City last December.

Last year, in Cagayan de Oro, Southwoods trailed in the first three rounds before delivering an explosive final-day performance at the Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club, burying Eastridge with a stunning comeback. With Shinichi Suzuki contributing an impressive 42 points, Southwoods closed with a 111-point round, securing a 13-point victory.

Suzuki will return to bolster the Carmona, Cavite squad’s chances. Still, long-time team captain Thirdy Escano admitted having difficulty assembling a complete roster with barely three weeks remaining before the event.

“We only have Shinichi and Zeus (Sara) who have so far secured spots for the team,” Escano said. “Some of our players may not be available because the Interclub coincides with two other major events.”

Escano explained that some of his players are participating in both the Asian Junior Masters qualifying and the Philippine Golf Tour qualifying, which has complicated team preparations. Nevertheless, Escano remains optimistic, stating they still have a strong pool of talented players.

In contrast, Eastridge enters the tournament with a virtually intact lineup, missing only Jhondie Quibol, who opted to play in the PGT qualifying. Three members of the Binangonan-based squad that claimed victory in the Fil-Am Invitational’s championship division — Rolando Bregente, Ronel Taga-an, and Jeff Lumbo — form the core of the team for the Interclub.

With Quibol out, and Bobe Salahog signing up for Negros Occidental Golf Club, Eastridge is tapping young junior star Vito Sarines to bolster their roster. Gary Sales, the team’s most senior player, expressed confidence that this year’s team has what it takes to challenge for the title.

The Negros Occidental Golf Club (NOGCC) and Bacolod Golf Club will serve as the battlegrounds for the two-week-long event, which includes the seniors’ competition.

Formerly known as Marapara, the NOGCC is a historic course set in the scenic rolling hills of Negros Occidental. The hilly terrain, with tree-lined fairways, doglegs, and water hazards, presents a true test of skill, making it a favorite among seasoned players.

On the other hand, Bacolod Golf Club, also known as Binitin, offers a more forgiving yet still challenging layout. The course features spacious fairways, water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers, making it a perfect venue for exciting competition.

The seniors’ tournament will kick off the festivities from 10-13 February, followed by the men’s regular event from 18-21 February.