Mondilla, Jaraula eye triumphant return at PGT Bacolod

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Del Monte standouts Clyde Mondilla and Reymon Jaraula are set to bring firepower and experience back to the Philippine Golf Tour as they rejoin the field in the ICTSI Bacolod Golf Challenge, unfolding Sept. 2 at the tight, demanding Bacolod Golf and Country Club in Binitin, Murcia.

The return of the seasoned duo adds intrigue and intensity to the already talent-stacked field in the fifth leg of the PGT, with Jaraula aiming to defend his Bacolod crown after edging Angelo Que by one stroke in a dramatic finish last year, and Mondilla looking to end a title drought and reignite his bid for another PGT crown.

Jaraula skipped the recent Caliraya Springs leg but remains sharp and focused, drawing confidence from a solid fourth-place finish at Forest Hills.

Known for his quiet demeanor but fiery game, the reticent shotmaker returns to Binitin not just for a title defense — but with a target set firmly on joining the exclusive club of back-to-back PGT champions on the same course.

His familiarity with Bacolod’s risk-reward layout and poise under pressure make him one of the strongest contenders this week.

A repeat win would reaffirm his status as one of the most consistent Filipino pros in recent years and provide a significant boost in the season-long rankings.

Mondilla, meanwhile, is on a mission of his own.

The former Philippine Open titlist and multi-time PGT champion skipped the last two legs at Forest Hills and Caliraya Springs due to prior commitments but returns recharged, motivated and eager to get back in the winner’s circle.

He last tasted victory at Caliraya Springs in 2024, where he outclassed Que by three strokes.

A proven closer with the ability to dominate when in form, Mondilla’s return instantly elevates the competition.

His well-rounded game — highlighted by controlled iron play and deft touch on the greens — makes him a perfect fit for Bacolod’s par-70 layout, where precision matters more than power.

But the road to the title won’t be easy.

With Que, Guido van der Valk and Keanu Jahns already claiming wins in the season’s first four legs — and a deep roster of veterans and young guns hungry to break through — the Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc.-organized event is shaping up to be a thrilling test of strategy, nerve and execution.

Veterans like Tony Lascuña, Jhonnel Ababa, Zanie Boy Gialon and Rupert Zaragosa bring invaluable experience, while Carl Corpus, Aidric Chan and Sean Ramos continue to challenge the old guard with youthful fire and fearless play.

Other notable entries include past PGT winners Ira Alido, Michael Bibat and Jay Bayron, as well as Fidel Concepcion, who seeks a stronger finish after faltering in the final round at Caliraya despite a solid start.

Also joining the hunt are seasoned campaigners and dark horses such as Dino Villanueva, Ryan Monsalve, American Collin Wheeler, Japanese contenders Junichi Katayama and Toru Nakajima, and a solid Korean contingent led by Jisung Cheon, Kim Tae Soo, Taewon Ha and Kim Tae Won.

With high stakes, a tricky course and a power-packed field, the event promises four days of drama and precision — where bold shots may pay off, but even the slightest slip could prove costly.