Wide-open Caliraya showdown fires off

CAVINTI, Laguna — With no clear favorite and conditions ripe for surprises, the Philippine Golf Tour resumes today with the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship in a test of form, focus and fortitude where anyone could break through.

The P2-million event has turned into a much-anticipated clash following the postponement of the weather-hit Valley Golf Challenge three weeks ago. Top local pros and international regulars alike are looking to make up for lost ground, none more eager than former PGA Tour campaigner Justin Quiban.

With limited appearances on the Philippine Golf Tour due to international commitments, Quiban is making every start count. The 29-year-old is all-in at Caliraya, aiming for both a win and redemption after a tied-for-10th finish at Forest Hills last June.

“The break helped — I needed the rest and used it to fine-tune my swing and mindset,” said Quiban, who last won the PGT in late 2023 via a four-hole playoff over Marvin Dumandan. He led early at Forest Hills but faded in the middle rounds.

Still, he sees value in the experience.

“I’ve been itching to compete again, so there’s that extra edge,” he added.

“Just trying to find rhythm and see where my game is — no expectations, just play.”

Quiban, however, is not alone in his quest.

Fresh off a victory at Forest Hills, Dutchman Guido van der Valk enters with momentum.

He nipped Keanu Jahns and Angelo Que by one stroke to end a long title drought — and all three are back this week for another run.

Veterans Tony Lascuña, Jhonnel Ababa, Zanieboy Gialon, Rupert Zaragosa, Mike Bibat, and Ira Alido bolster the lineup, while a host of hungry challengers eye the top prize in what’s shaping up to be one of the most evenly matched stops on the circuit.