When the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub returns to Bacolod next month, the triumph of the human spirit will be at the forefront of many players’ minds. The last time the event was held in the city, action at Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club and Bacolod Golf and Country Club marked one of the final sports events before Covid-19 brought the world to a standstill.
Just days after Manila Southwoods and Canlubang won the Men’s Regular and Seniors divisions titles, respectively, global lockdowns were imposed, halting all sports for over two years.
From 7 to 21 February, the courses, formerly known as Marapara and Binitin, will again host the 76th edition of the event.
Southwoods will aim for a fourth consecutive crown, while Del Monte seeks to repeat its stunning upset at home in Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon.
“Bacolod has been the site of many memorable Interclub championships, and we’re certain this year will be no different,” said PAL president Stanley K. Ng. “As we return to the City of Smiles, let’s also celebrate the triumph of the human spirit through the sport we love. We wish every team the best of luck next month.”
The Interclub, known as the country’s unofficial team golf championship, had to take a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
The event resumed in 2023 in Cebu, where Southwoods once again dominated regular play, and Luisita dethroned Canlubang in the seniors division.
Seniors action will kick off on 10 February, with the men’s 72-hole championship starting eight days later.
The 55-and-over division is expected to be a wide-open race this year, with some key players from Cangolf and Luisita either opting out or joining other teams.
Canlubang and Luisita have combined to win 29 titles, with the Sugar Barons holding an 11-5 advantage since 2006 after ending the Luisitans’ six-year reign.
In the past 24 years, only Del Monte has managed to break the hold these two teams have had on Senior play.
The Bukidnon-based squad returns to Bacolod with nearly the same lineup that pulled off last year’s upset.