Dumalaog, Saban clinch victory in thrilling JPGT Pueblo Finals

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CAGAYAN DE ORO — Eliana Dumalaog and Jared Saban emerged as champions in their respective categories during the ICTSI Junior PGT Mindanao Series 4 at Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club, following nail-biting finishes that showcased their resilience and skill.

In the girls’ 10-12 division, Dumalaog triumphed in a dramatic three-way playoff after an intense final round.

Despite leading comfortably, Dumalaog stumbled with a double-bogey on the final hole, which allowed Rafella Batican and Isabella Espina to catch up, all finishing at 161.

Returning to the ninth hole for the playoff, Dumalaog held her nerve, sinking a decisive 15-foot birdie putt to secure the win.

“I was so nervous; my legs and hands were shaking during the playoff,” said Dumalaog. “But after I hit my drive, I felt pretty good.”

Meanwhile, in the boys’ 10-12 category, Saban staged an impressive comeback. Trailing by eight shots, Saban delivered a flawless bogey-free round of 67 to overtake Ralph Batican, finishing three strokes ahead with a total of 146.

His victory was sealed on the par-5 17th hole, where he birdied while Batican faltered with a double-bogey. “I just stayed focused,” Saban said, reflecting on his pivotal win.

Both Dumalaog and Saban’s victories secured their spots in the Match Play Championship set for October at The Country Club in Laguna, joining the top performers from the series.

In other age divisions, Shaqeeq Muhafiz Tanog topped the boys’ 8-9 category, with a total score of 176, while Abby Qiu made a victorious debut in the girls’ 8-9 division with a score of 172.

In the premier boys’ 16-18 category, Simon Wahing extended his lead with a solid 75, while Ally Gaccion dominated the girls’ 16-18 category with a total of 148.

These victories underscore the growing talent in Philippine junior golf, as these young athletes continue to rise to the challenges of competitive play.