Masters to squeeze the best out of PH Open aces

The Masters’ ninth hole will be breathtaking for its view and the challenge it will provide. —PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTHWOODS/ JULIUS SANTOS

The Philippine Open, Asia’s oldest national golf championship, is set for a challenging revival at the Masters course of Manila Southwoods from Jan. 23 to 26, with extended roughs, faster greens, and seasonal winds adding complexity to what is already tough test in Carmona, Cavite.

And the Asian Tour’s finest aces will deal with a menacing challenge as the par-70 course promises to bring the best out of those chasing the biggest slice of the pot in the $500,000 tournament.

The Masters, a Jack Nicklaus-designed layout revered for its precision demands, will stretch to over 7,200 yards for the event, departing from its usual par-72 configuration. Scoring opportunities remain, but adjustments to holes No. 4 and No. 15, now long par-4s, will demand accurate mid- to long-iron approaches.

Daunting setup

“We’re confident that the Masters will provide the challenge that will crown the most deserving Open champion,” said Al Panlilio, the chair of the National Golf Association of the Philippines who played a pivotal role in bringing the Open back after a hiatus.

Despite the daunting setup, Panlilio acknowledged the potential for low scores but emphasized the course’s defenses.

“Sure, we will see low scores each day, but that doesn’t mean it will be a cakewalk for anyone on the field,” he added.

The Open also serves as a showcase of Manila Southwoods’ recovery following the devastation caused by Typhoon Kristine, which rendered four holes unplayable.

“We want to show the world the quality of championship course we have—to show the beauty of the Philippines and the beauty of Southwoods,” said Jayson Yu, the club’s officer-in-charge. “It’s an honor for the club to host the Open.”