Thailand’s Sadom Kaewkanjana continued his impressive start at the 2025 Smart Infinity Philippine Open, extending his lead to three shots after the second round at the Masters Course of Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club.

Sadom, 26, carded a four-under-par 66, pushing his two-round total to nine-under 131 in the season-opening event of the Asian Tour. Despite bogeys on the 11th and 15th holes, he closed strong with birdies on the 16th and 18th, showcasing his resilience on a demanding course.

“Today, I played solid, just like yesterday,” Sadom said. “The course is playing tough, especially the holes converted from par fives to par fours. It’s all about hitting fairways and greens, and that’s my focus for tomorrow.”

Shin and Ikemura Lead the Chase

Micah Shin, a Korean-American returning from a hip injury, fired a 65 to climb to second at six-under 134. Shin, who has a strong connection to the Philippines after growing up in Davao City, credited his improved rhythm for his stellar round.

“I’m not 100 percent fit, but I’m happy with how I finished,” Shin remarked. “It feels great to be back in Manila Southwoods, though some changes to the course have made it feel new.”

Meanwhile, Japan’s Tomoyo Ikemura (66) and Australia’s Aaron Wilkin (69) sit tied for third at five-under 135, keeping themselves within striking distance heading into the weekend.

Local Star Justin Quiban Shines

Filipino favorite Justin Quiban thrilled the home crowd with a bogey-free 64, the lowest round of the tournament so far. Quiban, who is tied for 10th at three-under 137, credited improvements in his driving and putting for his standout performance.

“I was pretty much flawless from tee to green,” Quiban shared. “I worked on my driver after yesterday’s round, and it made all the difference today. Hopefully, I can carry this momentum into the weekend.”

Cut Line Drama

The cut was set at two-over 142, with 67 players advancing to the weekend. Notable names joining the fray include Australians Travis Smyth and Kevin Yuan, South Africa’s Ian Snyman, Korea’s Jaewoong Eom, and Thailand’s Charng-Tai Sudsom, all of whom are tied for fifth at four-under 136.

The Road Ahead

With two rounds to go, Sadom remains the player to beat, but challengers like Shin, Ikemura, and Wilkin are poised to make their move. Local fans will also have their eyes on Quiban as he aims for a maiden Asian Tour victory.

The Philippine Open continues to provide high drama, showcasing both local and international talent on a historic stage.