Uy returns to boost LPGT Valley field

ANTIPOLO — Daniella Uy, fresh off a stint in Taiwan, returns to the local circuit to bolster a strong lineup set for a rain-soaked showdown in the ICTSI Valley Golf Challenge, which tees off today, July 22, at the Valley Golf South course.

Uy tied for second with Korean Kim Seoyun in the season-opening Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT) leg at Pradera Verde last February before spending the next four months competing in Taiwan.

Though she fell short of expectations amid tough international competition, Uy said the experience sharpened her resilience and adaptability — traits she now hopes to use in pursuit of another LPGT title.

The former Junior World champion, who won in Bacolod last year and secured back-to-back titles at Forest Hills and Del Monte in 2023, will face a stacked field led by Mafy Singson.

Singson, who won this event in 2023 as an amateur, comes in riding high after edging Florence Bisera in a playoff at Eagle Ridge to claim the second leg of this year’s tour.

Chanelle Avaricio, fresh off a six-shot rout at Forest Hills, adds firepower to the mix.

Harmie Constantino and Princess Superal — both former Order of Merit winners — are also in the hunt, aiming to rediscover winning form.

Others eyeing a breakthrough include Sarah Ababa, Chihiro Ikeda, Mikha Fortuna, Bisera, and rising star Tiffany Lee.

Gretchen Villacencio, Velinda Castil, Kayla Nocum, Martina Miñoza, and Kim are likewise looking to contend.

Marvi Monsalve, who has sharpened her game through recent campaigns in Taiwan and Thailand, is also chasing a long-awaited maiden victory.

The 54-hole tournament — the fourth leg of the 2025 LPGT season — is organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and expected to be as much a mental and strategic challenge as a physical one.

Recent rains have softened the South course layout, adding unpredictability to the test.

While softer greens may reward aggressive play, soggy fairways could limit rollout and demand longer, more precise approach shots, especially on the course’s uphill holes.

Power, patience, and control will be key for those eyeing the PHP750,000 top prize.