BAGUIO CITY — The 75th Januarius Fil-Am Invitational bursts onto the fairways on Friday, its diamond-year edition opening with the seniors’ competition, where seasoned champions step back into the spotlight, eager to carve new stories into the tournament’s long, proud history.

Luisita enters the week with its trademark confidence, hoping to extend its rich winning tradition as it headlines the premier Fil-Championship division. The team is coming off a narrow five-point triumph over Manila Southwoods last year, a win that kept its grip on the crown firmly intact.

Abe Rosal — whose 34-point effort anchored Luisita’s final-round push in 2024 — returns to spearhead another title run alongside Benjie Sumulong, Ferdie Barbosa, and newcomer Ronnie Littaua. Team captain and reserve player Jeric Hechanove says this year’s campaign carries a deeper meaning.

“We have to continue our winning tradition, especially in honor of all the past Luisita players who passed on — Francis Gaston, Iggy Clavecilla, Carlo Gamban and Alex Sison,” Hechanove said.

Luisita, winner of six of the last seven editions, won’t have Manila Southwoods around this time to challenge its dominance. Still, Hechanove insists their absence won’t affect the team’s mindset.

“I think what’s more important for us is to win with our team and not worry about the others,” he said.

Riviera, last year’s third-placer, shapes up as Luisita’s biggest threat, with Srixon IMG, Valley and Leeward Fil-Am of Hawaii completing the five-team field.

Action in the Fil-Championship division tees off Saturday at John Hay Golf Club, which will host the first two rounds. The final two rounds shift to Baguio Country Club, the historic venue where many past championship duels have been decided.

The Am Championship division features Green Water Seniors, Mamala Bay, Srixon IMG Team 2, Summit Point and Team CAGC Seniors.

This year’s seniors event — split into seven divisions — uses the Stableford scoring system and introduces a new twist: a 4-to-play, 4-to-count format. With every score counting, consistency becomes crucial, adding pressure to deliver on every hole.

Friday’s opening day showcases action in Senior A, Senior C, Senior D and Senior F.

The event also marks a significant test for John Hay Golf’s interim management, which has spared no effort to ensure a smooth and successful tournament.