The path to golf greatness in the Philippines will once again pass through the well-kept fairways of Manila Golf & Country Club as the 2026 Philippine Ladies Open (PLO) takes center stage from February 24 to 26 with the support of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
Organized by the Women's Golf Association of the Philippines (WGAP), the prestigious annual tournament is set to attract international standouts as well as 100 of the country's top amateur talents, cementing its reputation as the premier proving ground for the next generation of champions.
PSC Chairman Patrick C. Gregorio praised the impact of women's golf in the country, and noted its proven ability to produce global champions.
Mr. Gregorio said, “The success of Bianca Pagdanganan and Yuka Saso shows that Filipino women can compete against the best women in the world and win. The Philippine Ladies Open is where these journeys begin.”
The Philippine Ladies Open has long been a source of global success with the MSES. Pagdangnan and Saso are among its distinguished alumni.
Ms Pagdanganan dominated the 2017 edition and was a double Asian Games medalist who now competes on the LPGA Tour.
Back-to-back champions in 2018 and 2019, Ms. Saso became a two-time US Women's Open titlist and dual gold medalist at the Asian Games, cementing her status as one of Asia's brightest stars.
Gracing the PLO fairways in 2017 and 2018 was Thailand's Athaya Thitikul, affectionately known as “Gino”, who has since risen to world No. 1.
WGAP Secretary Greeley R. “These champions have sharpened their competitive edge here,” Oposa said, underscoring the tournament’s role in preparing young golfers for international competition.
Mr Gregorio said the future remains bright with continued support for grassroots programmes.
“We believe that the next generation of Filipina golfers will not only follow in their footsteps but surpass them. With the right training, experience and opportunities, more Filipinas will stand on global podiums and make the country proud,” Mr. Gregorio stressed.
Beyond its flagship program, WGAP is expanding its impact in 2026 through three cornerstone competitions aimed at deepening the country's women's golf pipeline.
PLO remains the crown jewel of the association, while 30th The Luzvimin Invitational takes place on the north side of the beautiful John Hay Golf Course in Baguio City.
Running from April to October, the six-leg WGAP Circuit and WGAP Cup will feature more than 220 female golfers from 15 member clubs, culminating in a high-stakes Match Play showdown.
Now with a membership base of 555 and still growing, WGAP continues to champion grassroots and elite level development for female golfers across the country.
Its programs reflect a clear mission: to develop talent, build competitive experience and create pathways to international success.