Rupert Zaragosa clinched his second career Philippine Golf Tour title at the weather-shortened ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic, as relentless rains from Typhoon Kristine forced the cancellation of the tournament’s final round on Friday.
Heavy downpours left the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club waterlogged and unplayable, prompting tournament organizers to cut the event to 36 holes after an initial reduction from 72 to 54 holes due to adverse weather earlier in the week.
Overnight rains had submerged multiple fairways and bunkers, making further play impossible. Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. attempted to start play with three flights. However, persistent rainfall worsened conditions, and drainage became insufficient to handle the deluge.
Ultimately, the decision was made to end the tournament after two rounds.
Zaragosa’s strong second-round score of 66, posted before the storm’s onset, secured him a six-stroke lead over his closest competitors, Tony Lascuña and Reymon Jaraula, for a winning total of six-under 134.
The win, sponsored by Negros Electric and Power Corp., awarded Zaragosa a prize of ₱450,000, concluding his 2024 PGT season on a high note.
“I’m extremely happy with the outcome, even though we couldn’t complete all 72 holes,” Zaragosa shared in Filipino. “I was prepared to play the final 18, but considering how unplayable the course became, I understand the decision. Winning this way still means a lot.”
The victory, his second on the tour, follows his nine-stroke triumph in Iloilo last year, which he described as “memorable” for being a full four-round event.
This latest title is equally meaningful, as Zaragosa dedicated it to his grandfather, who is currently recovering in the hospital.
Reflecting on his year, Zaragosa noted, “It’s been challenging. My game wasn’t in the best shape early on, but I’m grateful to finish strong and secure this win. I thank God for this opportunity, especially in the season’s final leg.”
While it’s rare for PGT events to be shortened to just 36 holes, the last instance was in 2012, also at this venue, when Zanieboy Gialon defeated Lascuña in a sudden-death playoff after the tournament was reduced to 54 holes.
Looking ahead, Zaragosa has his sights on qualifying for the Asian Tour through its Q-School in December, aiming to expand his career on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Lascuña and Jaraula, who tied for second place at 140, each earned ₱232,500. Lascuña, who previously won the Splendido Taal leg in challenging conditions in July, scored a 70, while Binitin leg champion Jaraula finished with a 72.
Six players shared fourth place at 141, including Collin Wheeler (70), Keanu Jahns (70), Russell Bautista (72), Sean Ramos (72), Francis Morilla (73), and first-round leader Michael Bibat (75), each taking home ₱91,250.
