Constantino seeks Caliraya comeback in fierce golf field

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CAVINTI, Laguna – Harmie Constantino returns to the site of one of her most emphatic victories, aiming to reignite the form that once made her the queen of the local tour as the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship tees off today, Tuesday, Aug. 5.

Once a consistent force on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, Constantino has recently struggled with inconsistency.

But at Caliraya Springs, where she triumphed just a year ago, she’s determined to turn things around—and turn heads once more.

The composed but fierce Constantino edged Epson Tour campaigner Pauline del Rosario by two strokes here last season, then carried the momentum to win the Philippine Ladies Masters and dominate a weather-shortened Negros Occidental finale, sealing the Order of Merit crown.

Since then, however, her results have been less impressive.

She placed 22nd at Pradera Verde, tied for 20th at Eagle Ridge, and shared 13th at Forest Hills—a string of finishes that signal a slump in her once-rising career.

Now back on familiar ground, Constantino is not just aiming for a win—she’s seeking redemption and a revival, determined to silence doubts and reignite the fire that fueled her ascent.

Standing in her way is one of the most competitive 21-player fields assembled this season—a compact but talent-laden roster filled with experience, raw skill, and fierce ambition.

Mafy Singson, one of the tour’s most consistent performers this year, is eyeing another title run after a dramatic playoff victory over Florence Bisera at Eagle Ridge and a runner-up finish to Chanelle Avaricio at Forest Hills.

Fresh off a stint on the China Tour, the Davaoeña enters the event recharged and confident.

“The break gave me time to rest, work on my game and overall fitness,” said Singson, who missed a chance to compete at Valley, where she earned her first pro win in 2023.

“I was really looking forward to that event, but I used the time to focus on what I could control—strength training, conditioning, and sharpening my game.”

While eager to perform, Singson remains grounded.

“It’s been windy lately, so I’ve prepared for all conditions,” she added.

“I’m not setting specific expectations.

I’m just ready to compete and enjoy the week.”

Multiple-time LPGT champion Princess Superal is also hungry for redemption after a series of lackluster finishes.

Known for her poise and precision, Superal is a strong contender if she regains her rhythm.

Florence Bisera, a consistent threat all season, is aiming for another breakthrough, while Mikha Fortuna, veteran Marvi Monsalve, and rising star Kayla Nocum are all in the hunt in the 54-hole event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc.

Koreans Tiffany Lee and Kim Seoyun add intrigue to the mix.

Lee showed early brilliance at Pradera Verde before fading, while Kim tied for runner-up honors.

Veterans Sarah Ababa and Chihiro Ikeda—both capable of delivering strong finishes—bolster the field, along with Gretchen Villacencio, Martina Miñoza, and young talents like Velinda Castil and Pamela Mariano.

Lee, who has flashed potential early in the season, remains a wildcard.

While pressure may have affected her past finishes, a steady performance could make her a game-changer.

Despite the short lineup, the tournament promises tight competition with no clear favorite.

With each player entering with something to prove or defend, the Caliraya Springs Championship shapes up as a battle not just of skill and form—but of mental toughness, adaptability, and championship grit.

As Constantino looks to reclaim her throne, the rest of the field is equally eager to rewrite the script—turning Caliraya into a proving ground for redemption, resurgence, and fierce rivalry.