30/03/2026
The Future Champions Golf Philippines National Open marked a significant milestone for junior golf in the country, made even more meaningful through FCG’s strong collaboration with the Pike Braga Sports and Development Foundation (PBSDF).
This prestigious event served as an official qualifier for the globally recognized FCG Callaway World Junior Championship happening this summer, opening doors for young Filipino golfers to compete on the international stage in Palm Desert, California.
The ceremonial tee-off on March 26 (Round 1) was graced by distinguished guests and key figures in Philippine sports, including:
• Bones Floro – Secretary General, National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP)
• Oliver Gan – President, Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP)
• Rico Hernandez – Official Representative of Senator B**g Go
• Backy Bacquiran – President, Unilab; Partner of PBSDF for the Barotac Nuevo Nutrition Program
• Apriel Smith – Miss Universe Philippines – Cebu City
• Bobe Salahog – 2024 FCG Callaway World Junior Champion
• Pike Braga – Founder, Pike Braga Sports and Development Foundation (PBSDF)
A total of 30 young athletes competed across four age divisions, girls and boys: 9–10, 11–12, 13–14, and 15–18. Beyond trophies and certificates, the stakes were life-changing… eight champions (one per division) earned fully funded round-trip airfare to Los Angeles, giving them the opportunity to represent the Philippines on a global platform.
At the heart of this event is the growing partnership between PBSDF and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), signaling a powerful step forward in developing grassroots golf in the Philippines. This collaboration is deeply rooted in a shared mission: to identify, support, and elevate gifted and talented Filipino youth, especially those from underserved communities, by providing access, opportunity, and world-class exposure through the sport.
A special thank you to Philippine Sports Commission Chairman, Patrick Gregorio, whose leadership and support helped bring this meaningful partnership to life. We are also grateful to Fritz Gaston – Commissioner, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), who attended and supported the event, representing PSC during the awarding ceremony and banquet.
The initiative also plays a vital role in promoting sports tourism, as the qualifier welcomed participants beyond the Philippines, showcasing the country as a destination for competitive junior golf.
The success of the tournament would not have been possible without the generous support of Eagle Ridge Country Club, led by:
• Miguel Dominguez – Chairman
• Vicente Santos – President
• Antonio Boy Blue Ocampo – Manager
Special appreciation also goes to Gary Sales, PBSDF Event Partner and Supporter, whose generosity in providing goodie bags, prizes, and raffle items added joy and excitement to the young participants’ experience.
More than just a tournament, this event stands as a testament to what can be achieved when organizations unite with a shared vision… empowering the next generation, growing the game, and proudly elevating Filipino talent onto the world stage.
