INQUIRER Sports

MANILA, Philippines -- Malaysian star Danny Chia will be banking on his new-found confidence to inspire him to success at the Philippine Open starting Thursday.

Chia believes his commanding performance at the British Open qualifiers in Singapore last week has given him the extra drive needed for the $300,000 Asian Tour event.

The 36-year-old Malaysian last tasted victory at the 2002 Taiwan Open but, backed by a rejuvenated mental game, Chia hopes to tackle the famed Wack Wack Golf and Country Club and claim the top prize of $47,550.

Other title contenders this week include nine-time Asian Tour winner Thaworn Wiratchant of Thailand, in-form Taiwanese star Lin Wen-tang, who triumphed at the Asian Tour International two weeks ago, Korea's Lee Sung, Filipino Juvic Pagunsan and defending champion Frankie Minoza.

Chia enjoyed two solid rounds at last month's Malaysian Open and was the joint leader midway through before costly mental errors saw him slip away.