Filipino standouts Sean Ramos and Clyde Mondilla have secured their places amongst the world-class field for the BingoPlus Philippine Open after emerging as the leading local performers at last week's inaugural DigiPlus Philippine ADT Open.
Ramos led the local challenge with a superb four-round total of 11-under-par, finishing just five shots behind champion Michele Ortolani. The rising Filipino talent posted four consecutive under-par rounds, highlighted by a third-round 67, to claim top local honours and book his place in one of the region's most anticipated tournaments.
Veteran Angelo Que, the 2008 Philippine Open champion, finished one shot further back at 10-under-par. Already exempt into the championship field, the second qualifying position passed to 2019 Philippine Open winner Clyde Mondilla, who carded an impressive 8-under-par total across the week.
For Ramos, the opportunity represents another chance to test himself against a world-class field while continuing his ascent in the professional ranks.
"Very excited, of course," said Ramos. "I lost my Asian Tour card last year by a very small margin, so having the opportunity to get back out there, prove myself and compete again means a lot. I'm hoping to perform better than I did at last year's International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus. It would be amazing if I could put together a great week, contend and maybe even get a win."
The 21-year-old believes competing on home soil adds further significance to the occasion as he prepares for November.
"Playing in our home country gives me even more motivation," he added. "I'll be giving 100 percent effort in every practice session and working on all aspects of my game. The goal is to make every part of my game as strong as possible and hopefully have my A-game ready that week."
The young Filipino is among a new generation of players benefiting from the growing momentum of the sport in the country, a trend he believes has accelerated following the success of last year's International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus.
"There were so many people out supporting the event last year, and since then I've noticed more interest in golf from friends and people around me," Ramos said. "The game is growing here in the Philippines, and more people are getting involved, which is great for the sport."
For Mondilla, qualification presents another opportunity to test himself against a world-class field after gaining valuable experience competing on The International Series stage on home soil last year.
"I'm very excited for the event," said Mondilla. "It's a great opportunity for local players like me to compete in The International Series this coming November."
The former Philippine Open champion is determined to make the most of his second appearance after falling short of his expectations at Sta. Elena Golf Club in 2025.
"I played last year at Sta. Elena, but I didn't perform as well as I wanted to," he said. "Hopefully this year I'll be able to compete better and put in a stronger performance."
Representing the Philippines in front of home fans provides additional motivation for the 32-year-old as he begins preparations for the championship.
"It motivates me to work harder in my game, practice more and train harder in preparation for the tournament," said Mondilla.
Elevated to The International Series for the first time, the BingoPlus Philippine Open will bring together many of the Asian Tour's top performers and international stars, with Ramos and Mondilla joining an expanding local contingent eager to showcase the strength and depth of Filipino golf on one of the sport's premier stages.
