Tabuena still on Cloud 9

It’s been more than a month, but Miguel Tabuena remains ecstatic over his historic victory in the International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus at the Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club.

During the “Swing Above The Odds” event last week, Tabuena stressed that his victory was truly special, not just because he pulled it off against the world’s brightest golf stars, but because he did it in front of his family, friends, and supporters on the same course where he practically grew up.

Tabuena capped his International Series bid with a joint 11th-place finish in the PIF Saudi International. He, however, emerged third in the Asian Tour Order of Merit, falling a few points from becoming the first Filipino to see action in the prestigious LIV Golf League.

Still, Tabuena has no regrets, as he was able to serve as an inspiration to countless young Filipinos who dream of becoming golf champions someday.

“I believe that every International Series is special, but for this one, it was difficult and I needed to adapt because it had more pressure and expectations from the people,” Tabuena said during the thanksgiving party organized by his sponsor, ArenaPlus, at the Uma Nota Manila in Taguig City.

"Thank God, I was able to pull it off in front of my friends, family, my wife and daughter. It was nice to see them on the 18th green and I have a moment with them that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”

But one of the highlights of the events was the awarding of the P2.5-million cash reward from ArenaPlus in recognition of his outstanding performance in one of the world’s toughest golf events.

The check was presented by Celeste Jovenir, DigiPlus vice president of Investor Relations, Corporate Communications and Sustainability.

“Thank you, Miguel, in you we see your pursuit of excellence, hard work, and desire to uplift the Filipino talent on the world stage, as ArenaPlus remains committed to supporting local athletes and elevating the sports industry in the Philippines,” Jovenir said.

She added that ArenaPlus had embraced its role as one of the main boosters of Filipino athletes.

“At ArenaPlus, the country’s No. 1 sportsbook, it's natural for us to support the nation's sports scene, and we started doing this on a foundation level, but even on a branding level, we have started supporting institutions, including the Philippine Sports Commission,” said Jovenir, who also rallies behind other Filipino athletes like Carlos Yulo, Scottie Thompson and Eumir Marcial.

“We were also a big part of the International Series Philippines. With this, we want to be able to help the country develop top emerging athletes, providing them with the proper resources and support.”

Tabuena expressed gratitude for the support that ArenaPlus has been giving him.

“It takes a village to accomplish something, it really does, I’m truly honored to be here in front of you. What I did took so much out of me, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without all of you,” Tabuena added.