On July 4, the fairways of Wack Wack Golf and Country Club came alive with more than just a friendly game of golf. The Utopia Excellence Cup, organized by the Fraternal Order of Utopia, brought together an inspiring mix of competition, camaraderie, and purpose. It was a day shaped by tradition and driven by the ideals of service, sacrifice, and excellence.
On July 4, the stunning fairways of Wack Wack Golf and Country Club came alive with a friendly game of golf. The inaugural Utopia Excellence Cup, organized by the Fraternal Order of Utopia, brought guests and players an inspiring day of competition and camaraderie, in a day dedicated to the participants’ shared pursuit of excellence.
Far from being just a golf tournament, the tournament welcomed a distinguished crowd. Participants included some of the most respected names in law and public service. Among the attendees were Supreme Court Justices Rodil Zalameda and Andy Reyes, SEC Chairman Francis Lim, SEC Commissioner Bryant Fernandez, and Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan. Also present were Greg Tiongco and John Siao, both named among ABLJ’s Top 100 Lawyers. Public officials such as Congressman Jan Rurik Padiernos and Governor Edgar “Egay” Aglipay of Cagayan also joined, adding further weight to the tournament’s significance.
The players competed fiercely, but all would agree that the real win came from the renewed friendships, and the quiet moments in between holes that reminded everyone why this event mattered. It was not just about hitting under par or scoring the best, it was about reconnecting with fellow brothers, professionals, exchanging ideas, and celebrating a shared commitment to excellence in the legal and business field, and beyond.
Ultimately, the organizers had a deeper goal. Aiming to support the Fraternity’s projects such as scholarship programs and public service initiatives for the next few years. These efforts reflect Utopia’s belief in building the nation through the support of the next generation of legal minds. The valued sponsors of the event made this possible, providing for raffle items where all guests walked away with prizes ranging from premium items to luxury resort vacations.
As for the winners, these players demonstrated excellence on the green. Antonio Sabre captured the Overall Champion title with the tournament’s lowest net score. In Class A, Gino Puno emerged victorious, followed by Butch Yabut in second and Rurik Padiernos in third place.
Justice Zalameda added another trophy to his name by topping the Seniors division. Roma Valdez and Tito Pintor followed closely behind, earning first and second runner-up positions, respectively.
Class B saw Adwin German finish at the top. Gerard Camina claimed the runner-up spot, and Borge Arambulo completed the podium.
In Class C, Armand Mendoza led the field, with Bradley Cua and Bowditch Mercado taking second and third.
The Ladies category featured standout performances. Sophia Caedo earned the top prize, with Debbie Garcia finishing second and Sophia Cua rounding out the top three.
By the time the sun dipped below the horizon, the day had left a lasting impression. The tournament was not just a celebration of golf, but a living reminder of the values that have guided Utopians since the fraternity’s founding in 1964. For everyone involved, the Utopia Excellence Cup wasn’t simply a success — it was a reaffirmation that the principles they stand for continue to matter, both on and off the course.
When all was said and done, the day had left a thoroughly lasting impression. The tournament was not just a fun day of golf in the beautiful greens of Wack Wack Golf and Country Club, it was a reminder and a sharing of the values that have guided Utopians since the fraternity’s founding in 1964. For everyone involved, the Utopia Excellence Cup wasn’t simply a resounding success, it was a reaffirmation that the principles they stand for continue to matter, both on and off the course.