PSC, NGAP open golf courses to youth

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), in partnership with the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP), will roll out a nationwide grassroots program aimed at expanding access to golf and developing future elite players.

The initiative, called “Fairway to the Future,” will be launched on May 18 at Club Intramuros Golf Course and seeks to open the sport to a broader sector of Filipino youth, including public school students, children of caddies and out-of-school youth.

PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio said that the program will designate selected government-owned and partner golf courses as training venues, allowing participants aged 18 and below to access facilities daily from midafternoon to twilight.

“Golf has long been confined to private clubs and elite circles,” Gregorio said, adding that the program aims to make the sport more accessible.

Around 20 courses nationwide are expected to participate in the initial rollout, with driving ranges also open to young players under the supervision of NGAP-accredited coaches.

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NGAP president Al Panlilio said that the initiative is intended to provide opportunities for aspiring golfers who may not otherwise have access to the sport.

The program also includes coach development, with NGAP secretary-general Bones Floro noting that international support will help train local coaches and standardize instruction.