NGAP backs JGFP World Team tilt

With the full backing and sanction of the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP), the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines is set to take junior golf to a new level as it stages the first-ever JGFP World Junior Team Championship 2026 this April in Davao City.

JGFP president Oliver Gan said preparations are in full swing for the tournament, scheduled 16 to 19 April at Apo Golf and Country Club, calling it a major step forward for the development of young Filipino golfers.

“We are very excited to stage a first-of-its-kind event in the country — a world team competition for junior golfers aged six to 18,” Gan said. “This is part of our mission to provide high-level competition for our players, and having the NGAP’s sanction and support makes this tournament even more significant.”

The Davao event will follow closely on the heels of another NGAP-backed project. In March, the JGFP has been tasked by the NGAP to organize the qualifying tournament for the Uswing Junior World Golf Championship, underscoring the growing role of the foundation in handling major junior events.

Gan said the NGAP’s involvement has helped generate strong international interest. The JGFP has already reached out to various golf federations abroad and has received positive responses, including assurances that top junior players will be sent to compete.

Countries that have already confirmed participation include South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei and Laos. With NGAP support, the JGFP is also in talks with federations from China, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan and Australia.

As host nation, the Philippines will field two teams, with players to be selected through qualifying tournaments in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and the National Capital Region, ensuring nationwide representation.

Gan noted that the busy competition calendar reflects a renewed push for junior golf development.

“It’s going to be a very active year for our young golfers, especially in the first half,” he said. “Alongside the return of inter-school and local tournaments, we’ll have the qualifiers and then the world junior team championship itself — made possible with the strong support of the NGAP.”