Batangas and Cavite served as an ultimate playground for golf enthusiasts when the Department of Tourism (DOT) recently hosted the Southern Luzon Swing: Golf Tourism Playing Familiarization Tour.
Designed to showcase the Philippines as a rising star in Asia’s golf scene, the tour offered participants a unique blend of world-class courses, networking opportunities, and the warm hospitality the country is known for.
Golfers from Taiwan, India, Thailand, and key local institutions flocked to the region to experience firsthand the sweeping greens, challenging fairways, and unforgettable landscapes of Southern Luzon. Over four days, these delegates discovered that the Philippines is not just a destination—it’s an experience.
The tour took participants through some of the region’s most celebrated golf courses. They teed off at Summit Point Golf & Country Club and Mount Malarayat Golf & Country Club, both in Lipa City, Batangas, and wrapped up at Eagle Ridge Golf & Country Club in General Trias, Cavite. Each course presented its own character—from rolling slopes to intricate greens—and left an impression on visitors.
“It was impressive. Each course had its own charm,” shared a delegate from Taiwan. Golfers from India laughed about “consistently bad golf but consistently great experiences,” praising the diversity of layouts and the thrill of each hole. Many vowed to return next year, promising larger groups and even more excitement.
STRENGTHENING TOURISM
The Southern Luzon Swing was more than just a golf tour—it was a platform for collaboration and growth. DOT Director for Golf Tourism, Lyle Uy, extended heartfelt thanks to all who made the event possible, especially Newport World Resorts, whose support elevated the experience for every participant. Behind the scenes, the ground handling and event management teams ensured every swing, every round, and every interaction went off without a hitch.
“This event gives golfers a clear picture of how the sport is played and experienced in the Philippines,” said DOT Undersecretary for Special Projects Ferdinand “Cocoy” Jumapao. “We aim to become Asia’s top golf destination. Golfers love the sport, and we want them to love the Philippines even more.”
LOCAL PRIDE
For local golf institutions, the tour offered a stage to shine. Representatives from Iloilo Golf & Country Club, home to the historic Sta. Barbara Golf Course shared their gratitude for the chance to showcase the Philippines’ oldest golf course. “We treasure the new friendships we formed with golfers from here and abroad,” said Tina Ita-as, Ed Kanapi, and Joey Avila. “This inspires us to elevate Iloilo as a future landmark on the country’s golf map.”
From Mindanao, Dakak Golf’s Mike Besa echoed this sentiment: “Congratulations on a successful and enjoyable event! We look forward to future collaborations to grow golf tourism across the Philippines.”
Even industry partners joined in the excitement.
Golf tour Jet Revilla described the tour as a “meaningful experience, a chance to mingle with players from different countries, and a step toward expanding international golf networks.”
A NEW EAR
The Southern Luzon Swing proved that the Philippines is ready to stake its claim as a premier golf destination in Asia. Beyond the fairways and greens, the event highlighted the country’s hospitality, its passion for golf, and the untapped potential waiting to be discovered by international visitors.
As the final rounds concluded and participants packed up their clubs, one thing was clear: this wasn’t just a golf tour—it was a movement. A movement to put the Philippines on the global golfing map, one fairway at a time.
And with next year’s edition already eagerly anticipated, the future of Philippine golf tourism has never looked brighter.
