Thailand’s Sarit Suwannarut set the tone early in the US$2 million International Series Philippines, carding a brilliant eight-under-par 64 to seize the solo lead after the first round at Sta. Elena Golf Club on Thursday, October 23.

Sarit shrugged off an early bogey and went on a birdie spree, draining nine in total to edge Japan’s Kazuki Higa by one stroke. The in-form Thai star, who has been consistent in recent Asian Tour stops, credited his rhythm and confidence for his stellar start.

Sarit’s strong start sets the tone

“It was perfect. I’ve been playing pretty good,” said Sarit, who has posted top-15 finishes in his last three Asian Tour starts. “Before the round, I know I can share the ball number with my caddie and hit the shots. I tell myself, you can hit it, you can do it.”

The 26-year-old, a two-time International Series champion, started on the back nine, firing four birdies before adding five more on his return loop. His only blemish came early in the round, but he quickly bounced back with accurate irons and steady putting.

“It’s not as long as some other golf courses, but the rough is pretty thick,” he noted. “If you miss your position, it’s really hard to get it out. You have to be hitting well and putting it in a good position to make a good number.”

Higa and Johnson chase close behind

Kazuki Higa, a two-time Asian Tour winner this season, also looked sharp, firing a bogey-free 65 to sit just a shot behind. “A round of seven-under was a little better than what we planned,” said Higa. “We could have made two or three more putts, but overall it was solid.”

Meanwhile, LIV Golf star Richard Bland opened with a 66, tying for third alongside Americans Charles Porter and George Kneiser, and Thailand’s Chapchai Nirat.

Former world No. 1 Dustin Johnson made his much-anticipated Philippine debut and did not disappoint, posting a 67 despite a double bogey on the 15th. “It was a good atmosphere,” said Johnson. “We made a lot of birdies and played well. Any time you make nine birdies, you know you hit a lot of good shots.”

The International Series Philippines, the sixth leg of the elevated International Series on the Asian Tour, continues Friday at Sta. Elena, with Sarit looking to build on his one-shot advantage over a packed leaderboard.