The search for golf’s next young star begins Friday, Oct. 9, in Tarlac. The Philippine Sports Commission and the National Golf Association of the Philippines will stage the PSC Chairman’s Cup at Luisita Golf and Country Club.

More than 100 golfers from government agencies, private sector partners and the media are expected to play. The tournament begins with an 8 a.m. shotgun start, and registration opens at 6 a.m.

Fairway to the Future: Free Golf for Underprivileged Kids

The event rallies support for Fairway to the Future, a grassroots program initiated by PSC Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio. It follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen government support for grassroots sports.

The program aims to provide free golf lessons and access to training facilities for qualified underprivileged children nationwide. Priority could go to children and dependents of caddies and club employees.

“We believe golf talents can be found all over the country, and through this program, we might discover a diamond in the rough who can become a champion,” Gregorio said. The program targets golfers aged 18 and below.

Among those targeted are children of caddies, greenskeepers and club employees. Public school students, out-of-school youth and young players from provincial communities are also included.

The proposed framework includes school-based instruction, standardized coaching and regional training centers. Participating facilities would offer free practice areas and waive green fees for registered juniors during set hours.

PSC Chairman’s Cup Format, Molave Points and Prizes

The Chairman’s Cup uses a four-person scramble format. Each team selects its preferred shot, and all four members play from that position until the ball is holed.

Scores convert to Molave points: six for an albatross, five for an eagle, four for a birdie, three for par, two for a bogey and one for a double bogey. A triple bogey or worse earns no points, and the highest 18-hole total wins.

The Juniors division will recognize the champion, first runner-up and second runner-up teams. The Government Partners, Private Partners, Media and PSC–POC divisions will each award a champion and first runner-up team.

Special hole awards will also be presented for the most accurate drive and longest drive on Hole 1. Nearest-the-pin and hole-in-one honors will be awarded on Hole 13.

Gregorio said he hopes more partners will come on board. “We intend to expand our partnerships as we continue the program. Hopefully, more stakeholders will join us in providing opportunities for our children,” he said.

The PSC and NGAP will lead the nationwide program. Partners include the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Armed Forces of the Philippines and Department of National Defense.

Major sponsors Smart, John Hay Golf and Malbon Golf back the event. Minor sponsors include Asia Brewery, Pocari Sweat, Milo, Patton Studio, Bluebird Golf and Philippine Airlines. Special thanks go to Philippine Golf Resort Reservations.