From the greens of Brittanika Golf Course in South Cotabato to the international stage of Thailand, Jared Saban has once again made the Philippines proud. The young golfing prodigy claimed the Class C title at the Singha Thailand Junior Championships, adding another feather to his already impressive cap.

No one is prouder than his father, Elmer. “It feels amazing, because my son has brought honor to our country,” he said in Filipino, his eyes glistening with pride.

Confidence fueled Jared’s remarkable performance. 

Fresh from his victory at the Malaysia International Junior Open, he walked into Thailand with a belief that victory was within reach. 

“I knew I could win here in Thailand because I had won in Malaysia. I trusted myself that I could do it again,” he said.

Yet the road to victory was far from smooth. 

Jared admitted he started shaky, shooting three over after the first three holes during the final round.

“I was nervous heading into hole four, so I drank some water to calm myself. Then I told myself to focus and not let the nerves take over. That’s how I managed to turn it around and win,” he recalled, his determination shining through every word.

Jared was quick to acknowledge those who helped shape his journey. 

“First, I thank the Lord for giving me this win. Second, Sir John Paul Tamayo and Ma’am Tahnee Tamayo—without them, I wouldn’t have been able to play internationally. Third, JGFP President Boss Oliver Gan and Ma’am Han Gaisano for giving me the chance to compete in the Thailand Singha Junior World Championship. To everyone who has helped in my golf journey, thank you so much. God bless you all,” he said.

The Philippines’ presence in Thailand extended beyond Jared’s victory. 

Shinichi Suzuki claimed runner-up in Class A, demonstrating poise and consistency, while Brianna Macasaet earned third runner-up in Class D, underscoring the depth of Filipino junior talent on the global stage.

Their success highlights the critical role of the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) and the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP), whose programs provide young golfers with coaching, international exposure, tournament access, and support needed to develop world-class skills.

The JGFP, the country’s oldest and biggest junior golf organization, provides year-long activities for young players whose ranks have increased significantly since businessman Oliver Gan took the helm.

To aspiring junior golfers, Jared had a simple yet powerful message: “Work hard and believe in yourself. With God’s help, we can win in international tournaments.”

At just 12 years old, Jared Saban’s focus, faith and grit mark him as one of the Philippines’ brightest golfing talents — a young athlete whose journey reminds the nation that with passion, perseverance, and proper guidance, global success is within reach.