The International Series is ‘elevating presence and perception’ of golf in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines - International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus is heralding a new era in golf for the country, according to the golfers aiming for a shot at glory on the LIV Golf-backed event which takes place from Oct. 23-26 at Sta. Elena Golf Club.

India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar, an 11-time winner on the Asian Tour whose last win came at the 2023 BNI Indonesian Masters, has seen the positive impact of the event.

“I first came to the Philippines in 2007 for the Philippine Open at Wack Wack Country Club (in Manila)," Bhullar said. "On Monday when I landed at the airport, the officer asked me what the purpose of my visit was, and I said I’m here for The International Series golf event. He knew exactly what I was talking about. That really shows how much the game has grown in popularity here.

"It was the same in India a few years back - when big events like these started coming in, it completely changed how people viewed golf. Now, with The International Series being played and broadcast around the world, it elevates the sport’s presence and perception everywhere it goes. In my opinion, over the past 19 years, golf has evolved tremendously in this region."

Having made the cut in every International Series event this year, Bhullar enters the week with unwavering confidence.

"I have been playing well and focusing hard - especially on the mental side of the game," Bhullar said. "I’ve been visualising more, meditating, and staying physically sharp in the gym to keep up with the younger players. I’m feeling good and ready to go.”

Wade Ormsby is another danger man in the field. The Australian, a two-time Hong Kong Open champion, recently moved third in The International Series Rankings after securing victory at the Jakarta International Championship.

The 45-year-old played in the first season of the LIV Golf League, and the 2023 International Series Thailand champion is eager for the return that would be guaranteed if he topped the Rankings table at the end of the season.

Ormsby admitted the win at the Jakarta International Championship, the fifth tournament on this season’s elevated series of events, came out of the blue.

”My expectations were low going into Jakarta, and that probably worked in my favour," Ormsby said. "I just wanted to enjoy my golf - my game feels in a good spot right now. Sta. Elena is in great condition, and it’s fantastic to see an event of this scale back in the region. I’m looking forward to getting out there and competing.”

Dominic Foos arrived in Manila riding high on the momentum of a breakthrough victory at the SJM Macao Open last week. The German made history by ending a 29-year drought on the Asian Tour and becoming the first player from his country to win since Bernhard Langer in 1996.

"I’m feeling good – I didn’t really celebrate much after Macau, so I’m fit and focused," Foos said. "It’s special to be mentioned alongside a legend like Mr. Langer, and I’m really proud of that. Now it’s about keeping the form going and having another strong week here.”

He added: “It’s crucial to grow the game by bringing big tournaments and top players to this region - it inspires the next generation. I remember when Tiger came to play in Germany when I was a kid; that moment really motivated me. Hopefully, this week does the same for young golfers here.”

Steve Lewton, the 2017 Solaire Philippine Open champion, is relishing his return to the Philippines. After finishing eighth at the Jakarta International Championship, the Englishman has climbed to 42nd on The International Series Rankings and hopes to build on that momentum.

“It’s always great to be back in the Philippines - I’ve got fond memories here," said Lewton, the 2024 Mandiri Indonesian Open winner. "It’s a different course this week, so I’m looking forward to seeing how it plays. I’ve been under the weather recently, but I’ll get some solid practice in before the first round and hopefully carry that good form through to Sunday.”

International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus is one of nine elevated events on the Asian Tour schedule this season that provide players from around the world a pathway into LIV Golf through the season-long Rankings race.

The tournament will pair elite competition with a vibrant entertainment experience, featuring headline concerts, premium hospitality, live music, gourmet dining, and immersive fan activities throughout the week.

Click here for tickets for the tournament, including free entry on Thursday and Friday.

(Photo of Gaganjeet Bhullar courtesy of Asian Tour)