Putter up: Tourism Group pushes for Golf Niche in PH, ASEAN

The Global Tourism Business Association has launched golf tournaments across the Philippines and ASEAN in a bid to promote the tourism aspect in the sport.

H.E. DATO’ ABDUL MALIK MELVIN CASTELINO (Malaysia),and GTBA President Michelle Taylan

GTBA kicked off its ASEAN Friendly Golf Tournament at the Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in General Trias, Cavite in partnership with UnionBank, Tourism Malaysia, and the Malaysia Friendly Golf (MYFG).  GTBA Chairman Michelle Taylan said the tournament is in line with the Philippine Department of Tourism’s goal of expanding its portfolio through golf.  “We’re partnering with different stakeholders in promoting golf and the various travel and tourism opportunities tied to the sport,” Taylan said. “We would be hitting two birds with one stone by encouraging amateur players to develop their passion, and also help the country and other golf destinations gain traction.”

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco earlier touted the country’s potential as a golf destination with more than 100 golf courses available across the Philippines.  The Philippines is also home to one of Asia’s oldest golf courses, found in Santa Barbara, Iloilo which was built back in 1907.  Frasco said “golf tourism represents a promising frontier for the Philippines” and that developing the segment could generate billions for the economy.

GTBA Golfers and Awardees

The ASEAN Friendly Golf Tournament will be held annually in different ASEAN venues, beginning March in the Philippines and Malaysia in June. There is also a non-ASEAN tournament happening in Guam. The tournament is open to all golf players, with individual and group slots available.  

ADVT.