After a week of heavy monsoon rains that shuttered golf courses across the country, the sun is finally out—and no one is more relieved than the caddies.

From Alabang Country Club to Valley Golf, courses were forced to close as torrential downpours left fairways waterlogged and greens unplayable.

Even Wack Wack’s prestigious East Course remained shut, battered by relentless rain and runoff.

But as the weather clears and courses start to reopen this week, caddies—many of whom live hand-to-mouth—are eager to return to the game that fuels their daily income.

“For us, it’s not just about the game. It’s about survival,” said Rolly, an old-time caddie at Veterans Golf Club. “When the players stop coming, we stop earning.”

A week with no work—and no pay

Unlike salaried employees, most caddies in the Philippines are paid per round. A fair day’s wage depends entirely on golfers showing up to play. When courses are closed due to rain, there are no tips, no service fees, no cash to bring home.

“It was hard. Very hard,” said Deo, a Valley Golf Club caddie who teaches on the side. “We just waited every day for updates from the club, but the rain wouldn’t stop. I had no income for six days.”

During the shutdown, some caddies tried to find side hustles—like driving pedicabs or helping in neighborhood errands. Others, especially older caddies, simply stayed home, stretching out what little savings they had.

“Even instant noodles were hard to buy after a few days,” Jenny admitted.

Eager for the first tee time

Now, as maintenance crews work double-time to dry out courses and remove debris, text messages are starting to trickle in. Tee sheets are filling up. Caddie coordinators are calling their roster back in.

For many, that first round back is more than just work—it’s a lifeline.

“I’m excited to carry a bag again,” said Rolly with a grin. “I don’t care if it’s muddy or if the sun’s too hot. I just want to earn.”

Caddies are bracing for a busy week as golfers return to take advantage of the clearer skies. Some even expect a small surge in bookings as players try to make up for lost time.

A humble return to the greens

Even as the fairways dry and clubs reopen, the damage from the monsoon is still visible—eroded paths, soggy bunkers, and slippery cart tracks. But caddies, ever the optimists, are focusing on what matters most: getting back on their feet.

“We don’t complain,” said Deo. “Rain or shine, we’re here to work. That’s how we feed our families.”

As golf swings back into motion across the country, it’s not just a win for players looking to break par—but a fresh start for the caddies who walk beside them, rain or shine.