Tabuena’s Heroics Light Up Sta. Elena
Local favorite Miguel Tabuena sent Filipino fans into a frenzy after firing a bogey-free seven-under-par 65 on Saturday at Sta. Elena Golf Club, putting himself in contention for a career-defining win at the US$2 million International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus.
Starting the day four shots behind leader Sarit Suwannarut, Tabuena surged with two eagles and three birdies to erase the gap and join the lead pack. The Filipino star’s stellar play was matched by China’s Sampson Zheng, who carded a brilliant 10-under 62, setting up a thrilling three-way tie at 15-under-par going into Sunday’s finale.
Battle at the Top
Alongside Tabuena and Zheng, Thailand’s Sarit Suwannarut—a two-time International Series champion—held his own despite tougher conditions. Japan’s Yosuke Asaji trails just one shot back at 14-under after a 65, while LIV Golf’s Dean Burmester and Japan’s Kazuki Higa are close behind at 14-under. India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar and Australia’s Marc Leishman remain within striking distance, making Sunday’s round a wide-open contest.
Tabuena’s Magic Touch
Building on his hole-in-one and eagle in round two, Tabuena delivered another show-stopping performance. His precision approach shots on Sta. Elena’s par-five 3rd and 16th holes led to two eagles, marking the defining moments of his round.
“I totally forgot my score out there,” said Tabuena, dedicating his performance to his late friend Paolo ‘Paowee’ Tantoco, son of Sta. Elena’s owner Rico Tantoco. “I was in a flow state and just wanted to execute my plan. To do it here, at home, in front of the fans—it means everything.”
Suwannarut Fights Through the Pressure
After a blistering start to the tournament, Sarit found Saturday’s round more challenging, posting a three-under 69. “It was a tough day with harder pins and a few missed drives,” he admitted. “Scores are going low, so I’ll just focus on my number and try to play my best.”
Having led in similar situations before—most recently in Macao—Sarit knows the final round pressure well. His experience could prove crucial as he seeks a third International Series title.
Zheng’s Career-Best Charge
China’s Sampson Zheng catapulted into the spotlight with a career-best 62, powered by eight birdies and an eagle on the 8th hole. His back-nine blitz of four consecutive birdies from 14 to 17 put him right in the mix.
“I just hit a lot of greens and made a lot of putts,” Zheng said. “The eagle on eight really gave me momentum. From there, everything just clicked.”
Final Round Showdown Awaits
With three players tied at 15-under and a packed leaderboard chasing close behind, Sunday’s final round promises drama, emotion, and world-class golf. Filipino fans will be hoping their hometown hero Miguel Tabuena can finish the job and deliver a historic victory at home.
