New PH golf grassroots program to tap regional talents

MANILA, Philippines – From exclusive fairways to inclusive pathways.

This is the direction the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), together with the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP), hope to take with the launch of “Fairway to the Future,” a grassroots program designed to democratize access to the sport and nurture the next generation of Filipino champions.

“Golf has long been confined to private clubs and elite circles. ‘Fairway to the Future’ aims to break that barrier by designating government-owned and partner courses as national training facilities,” said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio.

The program aims to discover junior golfers from diverse backgrounds — public school students, children of caddies, and out-of-school youth — and provide world-class training.

“We are proud to introduce an inclusive grassroots golf program that is a world first — without parallel anywhere. It represents a transformative step forward, poised to redefine Philippine golf and open opportunities for every child with a dream,” said NGAP president Al Panlilio.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had instructed the PSC to craft a grassroots golf program in line with the 2025 State of the Nation directive to ensure support for sports.

“Sabi nila ang magaling sa golf, kailangan may kaya sa buhay (They say only the well-off are good at golf). This national grassroots program of the PSC and NGAP will prove that golf is for everyone. As President Marcos himself declared in his last SONA: ‘Let the kids play,’” said Gregorio.

With access to fairways for those who have traditionally been shut out, the program hopes to deliver Olympic medal potential, discover regional talent, sustain athlete engagement, and provide opportunities and empowerment to underserved youth.

NGAP Secretary-General Bones Floro added that the program is also a “professional development pathway” for the national pool of coaches. – Rappler.com