The stage is set at Sta. Elena Golf Club, where the International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus will unfold from 23–26 October—marking a watershed moment for golf in the archipelago. Backed by LIV Golf and pulsing with global prestige, the tournament is more than a showcase of shotmaking prowess it’s a declaration of the sport’s rising stature in Southeast Asia.
India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar, an 11-time Asian Tour winner and a fixture on the leaderboard, reflected on the game’s growing resonance. “I first played in the Philippines in 2007 at Wack Wack,” he shared. “This week, when I told the airport officer I was here for The International Series, he knew exactly what I meant. That says everything about how far golf has come here.”
Bhullar, who claimed victory at the 2023 BNI Indonesian Masters, has made the cut at every International Series event this season. His preparation is both cerebral and physical. “I’ve been visualizing, meditating, staying sharp in the gym. I feel good. I’m ready.”
Australia’s Wade Ormsby, fresh off a surprise win at the Jakarta International Championship, enters the week ranked third in the International Series standings. A two-time Hong Kong Open champion and former LIV Golf League player, Ormsby is eyeing a return to the elite circuit. “Jakarta was unexpected,” he admitted. “I went in with low expectations, and that freed me up. Sta. Elena’s in pristine condition—I’m excited to compete.”
Germany’s Dominic Foos arrives in Manila riding high after his breakthrough win at the SJM Macao Open, ending a 29-year drought for German players on the Asian Tour. “It’s an honour to be mentioned alongside Mr. Langer,” he said. “Now it’s about keeping the momentum. Big events like this inspire the next generation—I know, because I was once that kid watching Tiger in Germany.”
England’s Steve Lewton, the 2017 Solaire Philippine Open champion, returns to familiar ground with quiet determination. After a top-10 finish in Jakarta, he’s climbed to 42nd in the Rankings and hopes to build on that form. “The Philippines has always been special to me,” said the 2024 Mandiri Indonesian Open winner. “I’ve been a bit under the weather, but I’m hoping to find rhythm before Thursday.”
The International Series Philippines is one of nine elevated events on the Asian Tour calendar, offering a coveted pathway into LIV Golf. But beyond the leaderboard, the week promises a festival of sport and spectacle—featuring headline concerts, gourmet dining, live music, and immersive fan experiences that bring the game closer to its growing audience.
As champions converge and the stakes rise, Sta. Elena becomes more than a venue—it becomes a crucible for ambition, legacy, and the next chapter of golf’s global story.
