The Philippines–Japan Society, Inc. (PJS) proudly hosted its 45th Golf Tournament on March 30, 2026, at the scenic Mount Malarayat Golf and Country Club. This year’s tournament formed part of the Philippines–Japan Friendship Year, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
A total of 63 players joined the friendly yet spirited competition. The event was formally opened with a Ceremonial Tee Shot by His Excellency ENDO Kazuya, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Philippines, followed by a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m.
In keeping with tradition, the tournament adopted the four-man team Scramble (Best Ball) format, fostering teamwork and camaraderie among participants.
- Champion – Team 14: Kian Emmanuel Yang, KATO Takahiro, SHIMAKAWA Shuzo, and Jose Antonio S. Borromeo Gross Score: 71 | Handicap: 2 | Net Score: 69
- 1st Runner-Up – Team 9: Edwin Umali, Rommel Rosales, Jose Remigio Castaneda, and YOSHITAKE Masami Gross Score: 72 | Handicap: 2 | Net Score: 70 (4 birdies)
- 2nd Runner-Up – Team 4: Jose Noel Ramirez, Toti Barcelon, Luis Lizano, and KUDO Shinji Gross Score: 71 | Handicap: 1 | Net Score: 70 (2 birdies)
The tie between Teams 9 and 4 was broken based on birdies, with Team 9 securing the 1st runner-up position.
Special recognition was also given to winners of the Fun Hole challenges:
- Longest Drive (Mt. Lobo Hole #4): Santino Laurel – 312 yards
- Most Accurate Drive (Mt. Lobo Hole #1): Francis Diaz – 16 ft 3 in
The tournament not only celebrated athletic skill but also strengthened the bonds of friendship between the Philippines and Japan.
📸 For detailed photos and complete scores, please visit our Resources section.
