UAAP partners with PGTI to launch varsity golf as demo sport
The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) is set to expand its sports program with the introduction of varsity golf as a demonstration event, following a three-year partnership with Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. (PGTI).
The inaugural UAAP golf tournament is scheduled from May 11 to May 14 at Tagaytay Midlands, featuring both individual and team competitions among participating member schools.
The partnership aims to establish a structured pathway for collegiate golfers, strengthening talent development and bridging the gap between amateur and professional competition.
UAAP Season 88 president Fr. Rodel Cansancio of University of Santo Tomas said that the collaboration underscores the league’s commitment to broadening its sporting base.
“Today marks the formal contract signing of the partnership between the UAAP and PGTI for the organization of the UAAP golf tournament,” Cansancio said. “This partnership is expected to yield substantial benefits for the UAAP and the student-athletes.”
Cansancio said the initiative aligns with the Philippine Sports Development Program, noting that golf was among Olympic-aligned sports recommended for inclusion.
“Our goal is continuity—to build a clear pathway from grassroots participation, through collegiate competition and onward to the world stage,” he said.
Long-term efforts
The UAAP formalized the partnership during a contract signing held alongside the UAAP Invitational Golf Tournament at The Country Club, which drew about 60 participants, including sports officials, alumni and media representatives.
PGTI general manager Colo Ventosa said that the partnership strengthens the organization’s long-term efforts to grow the sport across all levels.
“After establishing the junior level, we felt the need for a collegiate platform—a bridge between junior and professional golf—and that is how the intercollegiate tour came about, in partnership with the UAAP,” Ventosa said.
UAAP Executive Director Rene Saguisag Jr. acknowledged the challenges of staging golf within a collegiate league, citing varying course conditions and logistical demands.
“Mounting an event like this and including it in the UAAP is a rather challenging task, which is why we need partners and sponsors to make it happen,” he said.
Meanwhile, Musong Castillo of the Philippine Daily Inquirer won the overall low net title with a score of 71, while Francis Tueros topped the low gross category with an 82. Division winners included Jett Manuel, Randy Caluag and Waylon Galvez, while Erika Dy led the women’s division.
