The Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP) Interclub Championships will go international this year, with players from Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia set to compete at the Mimosa Plus Golf and Country Club in Clark, Angeles from 10-13 April.

Leading Team TGA is Thailand’s Nacha Sathitsumpun, the US Kids Pinehurst champion, who aims to help her team regain the overall title.

She will be joined by fellow Thai golfers Wirada Tawinsang, a former world junior champion; Jadar Kiatphonsiri, and Filipina Nicole Gan. An all-Thai team will also be competing, featuring Sarunyapong Hongamata, Lapassapon Loberto Heras Gomez, Rattakorn Ananchawitkul and Pranai Reankrai.

From Malaysia, the lineup includes Maverick Chua, Muhammad Afham Bin Othman, Siti Nur Husna Aina Binti Abd Karim Nast and Jamie Tan. Japanese golfers Kairi Kurogi and Oshi Shinohara are also set to compete in this World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) event.

At least eight more Thais are expected to join, bringing to 21 the number of international participants.

The tournament will be divided into four categories: Championship 13-18, Championship 12-and-under, D-League 1 and D-League 2.

“This is a major step forward for the tournament,” JGFP president Oliver Gan said. “We’re excited to bring international golfers to the Philippines and give local players the chance to compete at the highest level.”

The decision to go international carries broader implications, not just for the tournament itself, but for the Philippine tourism industry.

With its lush landscapes and world-class golf courses, the Philippines is rapidly becoming a popular destination for golf enthusiasts around the globe.

At least 24 local teams have already signed up, including prestigious golf clubs like Cebu Country Club, TGA, Team LDG, Valley, Riviera, Xavier, Alabang Country Club, Miriam, Sta. Elena, Camp Aguinaldo, Mt. Malarayat, Veterans, Brittannika, Wack Wack, Bacolod, Del Monte, Baguio Country Club, South Pacific, Apo, Royale Tagaytay, Royal Northwoods, Quantum, Beacon and Ateneo.

Originally focused on local golf clubs, the tournament has steadily grown into one of the Philippines’ most anticipated events, known for its emphasis on sportsmanship and camaraderie. The decision to invite international teams and clubs this year will not only raise the tournament’s profile but also expand its reach.

The inclusion of international teams is expected to boost the local economy and further enhance the country’s reputation as a premier golf destination. Looking ahead, organizers are exploring ways to enhance the tournament experience, including live broadcasts, advanced scoring systems, and partnerships with international sponsors.

“Our goal is to keep the essence of the tournament intact, while embracing the excitement and energy that comes with international participation,” Gan added.