Koreans to Lead Charge in Philippine Ladies Masters

Several high-profile Korean golfers with KLPGA Tour experience are poised to headline the inaugural ICTSI Worldwide Link Philippine Ladies Masters, kicking off Feb. 12 at the challenging Country Club course in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The 54-hole, $200,000 championship, part of the Asia Pacific Circuit Series Tour, promises intense competition as it brings together top talent from the Korean Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA), the LPGA of Taiwan (TLPGA), and the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT).

Fresh from her dramatic playoff win at the Indonesian Women’s Open, Hwang Yoona is aiming for back-to-back victories in Southeast Asia. Brimming with confidence, Hwang is focused on dominating the Philippine leg to further solidify her regional dominance.

Cho Jeongmin, who fell short against Hwang in Indonesia, is set for a redemption bid. With her proven record on the Korean Dream Tour, Jeongmin is expected to mount a strong challenge for the championship.

Adding depth to the Korean contingent is Song Ga-eun, the 2021 KLPGA Rookie of the Year and a two-time KLPGA winner. After a challenging 2024 season, where she finished 86th on the money list, Song views the Asia Pacific Circuit Series as a critical step toward regaining her form and confidence.

“I’ll focus on implementing the improvements I’ve worked on during the off-season and aim for a satisfying performance,” Song said.

Sohn Yebeen, a former national team standout, also bolsters the Korean roster. Ranked 33rd in the KLPGA 2025 Regular Tour Seed Rankings, Sohn is eager to make a mark in the tournament and solidify her standing.

Other notable Korean players include Park Ye-Ji, a 2024 Korean Dream Tour champion; Yoo Dagyeom, a US-based player; and qualifiers from the KLPGA 2025 International Tournament, led by Japan’s Wakui Mayu and Aoi Mako, as well as Thailand’s Chayanit Wangmahaporn.

While the Koreans are considered favorites, international players are eager to challenge their dominance. A major incentive awaits non-Korean champions, who will earn I-TOUR membership and a Dream Tour seed for the rest of the season and the following year, ensuring fierce competition for the title.

Top golfers from Taiwan and Thailand are also in the mix. The TLPGA contingent includes Li Ning Wang, ranked No. 4 on the TLPGA, along with Chen Chih Min, Ching Huang, Chang Hsuan Ping, and Chang Yi Han. Leading Thailand’s charge are PK Kongkraphan, Saraporn Chamchoi, Chonlada Chayanun, Pakin Kawinpakorn, Ornnicha Konsunthea, Kamonwan Lueamsri, and Navaporn Soontreeyapas.

The Philippines is fielding a formidable lineup determined to keep the championship at home. Pauline del Rosario and Dottie Ardina, who tied for 11th and 20th in Indonesia, lead the local charge.

Joining them are LPGT stars such as Princess Superal, Daniella Uy, Mikha Fortuna, Florence Bisera, Mafy Singson, Harmie Constantino, LK Go, Chihiro Ikeda, Marvi Monsalve, Pamela Mariano, Kayla Nocum, Gretchen Villacencio, and Sunshine Baraquiel, who is making a comeback. Rising Korean-Filipino star Tiffany Lee is also part of the Philippine roster.

With a challenging course, a prestigious title, and incentive-laden prizes at stake, the ICTSI Philippine Ladies Masters is set to deliver thrilling golf action. While the Koreans aim to assert their dominance, international challengers, including the Filipinas, are ready to rise to the occasion and shake up the competition.