Harmie hot on Caliraya throne

CAVINTI, Laguna — Harmie Constantino returns to the very site of one of her most emphatic victories, hoping to reignite the form that once made her the undisputed queen of the local tour as the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship unwraps today here.

Once a consistent force on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, Constantino has recently found herself grappling with inconsistency. But at Caliraya Springs, a course where she tasted glory just a year ago, she’s determined to turn things around — and turn heads once again.

The fierce yet composed Constantino edged Epson Tour campaigner Pauline del Rosario by two strokes here last season, then rode the momentum to clinch the Philippine Ladies Masters and dominate the weather-disrupted Negros Occidental finale, sealing the Order of Merit crown.

Since then, however, the road has been far less triumphant. Her recent finishes — 22nd at Pradera Verde, a tie for 20th at Eagle Ridge, and a share of 13th at Forest Hills — reflect a slump that has dampened what was once a blazing career trajectory.

Now back on familiar turf, Constantino isn’t just eyeing a return to the winner’s circle — she’s seeking redemption and a revival, intent on silencing doubts and reigniting the fire that fueled her rise.

But standing in her way is arguably one of the deepest and most competitive 21-player fields assembled this season — a compact yet formidable roster brimming with experience, raw talent and equally fierce determination.

Mafy Singson, one of the most consistent stars this year, is eyeing another title run after a dramatic playoff win over Bisera at Eagle Ridge and a runner-up finish to Chanelle Avaricio at Forest Hills. Armed with confidence and fresh from a China Tour stint, the Davaoeña heads to Caliraya ready and recharged.

“The break gave me time to rest, work on my game and overall fitness,” said Singson, who missed the chance for another title crack at Valley, where she scored her first pro win in 2023.

“I was really looking forward to that event, but I used the time to focus on what I could control — strength training, conditioning, and sharpening my game.”

While eager to perform well, Singson remains grounded.

“It’s been windy lately, so I’ve prepared for all conditions,” she added.

“I’m not setting specific expectations. I’m just ready to compete and enjoy the week.”

Princess Superal, a multiple-time LPGT champion, is just as hungry for redemption following a string of lukewarm finishes.