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The inclusive grassroots program of Philippine golf, which has ‘long been in private clubs and elite circles,’ aims to discover potential among public school students and cadets.
MANILA, Philippines – From exclusive routes to integrated routes.
This is the direction that the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), together with the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP), we hope to take during the launch of “Fairway to the Future,” a grassroots initiative designed to legitimize access to the game and nurture the next generation of Filipino champions.
“Golf has long been associated with private clubs and elite circles. ‘Fairway to the Future’ aims to break that barrier by designating courses owned by the government and partners as national training facilities,” said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio.
The program aims to discover junior golfers from diverse backgrounds – public school students, cadets, and out-of-school youth – and provide world-class training.
“We are proud to introduce a world-first inclusive grassroots golf program – unparalleled anywhere. It represents a revolutionary step, poised to redefine Philippine golf and open opportunity to every dreamer,” said NGAP president Al Panlilio.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had instructed the PSC to prepare a grassroots golf program based on the 2025 National Status order to ensure support for the sport.
“They say to be good at golf, you must be good at life (They say only those with a good life are good at golf). This national PSC and NGAP program will prove that golf is for everyone. As President Marcos himself declared in his last SONA: ‘Let the children play,’” said Gregorio.
With access to fairways for those traditionally excluded, the program hopes to deliver Olympic medal potential, discover regional talent, sustain athlete participation, and provide opportunity and empowerment to underserved youth.
NGAP General Secretary Bones Floro added that the program is also a “professional development channel” for the national group of coaches. – Rappler.com
