Gan stays as JGFP chief

Oliver Gan will continue to steer the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP) for another three years after being given a fresh mandate to lead the organization. The reelection renews his commitment to develop the sport and open more opportunities for the country’s young golfers.

“First of all, I am deeply honored and humbled to once again be entrusted with the leadership of the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines,” Gan said in his acceptance speech. “This fresh mandate is not just a vote of confidence — it is a call to keep pushing, to keep working, and to keep dreaming for the future of our young golfers.”

Gan, who first became president in 2022, recalled that his vision from day one was clear: grow golf from the grassroots, make it accessible to more kids nationwide, and build pathways for them to shine — whether at home or on the world stage.

During his first term, the former junior golfer oversaw the steady growth of grassroots programs, particularly in the provinces. He also ensured consistent participation of Filipino juniors in international competitions — many of whom brought home championships.

“We got them slots in international competitions, not only to gain experience and exposure, but most of our young golfers were able to take home the championship. We are very proud of that,” said Gan, who also serves as a board trustee of the Alumni Association of Xavier School (AAXS).

Under his leadership, the JGFP expanded junior tournaments nationwide, strengthened partnerships with clubs and sponsors, and provided training and competition opportunities at a high level. The foundation also embraced technology, introducing better registration systems and structured rankings to meet the evolving demands of the sport.

The JGFP also supported around 100 scholars from its grassroots pool — many of them children of caddies — and secured reciprocal partnerships with junior golf associations in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Vietnam, Indonesia and Australia.

“But there is still more work to do,” Gan emphasized. “We will bring the game to more communities, nurture not just the skills but also the character of our players, and inspire the next generation to love golf the way we do.”

Turning to the young golfers themselves, Gan added: “You are the reason we’re here. Every putt you sink, every shot you take, and every lesson you learn on the course is part of a bigger journey. We are here to make sure that journey is supported, celebrated, and filled with possibilities.”

Alongside Gan’s re-election, the JGFP also filled its 15-man board of directors during the August 8 proceedings at Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. The new board will elect its officers in the coming days, including chairman, vice president, corporate secretary, treasurer, and executive director. Former PBA head coach Ariel Vanguardia is expected to stay on as secretary-general, while 2022 chairman Tommy Manotoc will become chairman emeritus.

Among those elected to the board are former PBA player Jeff Chan, Aristotle Joseph Adiviso, Kevin Timothy San Agustin, Isonn Anthony Angheng, Mark Dy, Baltaire Balangauan, Mariel Dizon-Macasaet, Charlie Go, Aurelio Gomez, Cristina Lim-Flores, Lue Reine Lumanog-De Guzman, Gideon Namocatcat, Ronald Robinson Robins and Ely Saludar.

Gan closed his speech with a call for unity and passion: “Here’s to another chapter of growth, unity, and passion for the game we love. Let’s keep moving forward — together. Maraming salamat, and see you on the fairways!”