Local favorite Miguel Tabuena delivered a commanding performance to win the US$2 million International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus, clinching a three-shot victory at Sta. Elena Golf Club. Firing a flawless seven-under-par 65 in the final round, Tabuena finished with a 24-under total, ahead of Japan’s Kazuki Higa and Yosuke Asaji, who tied for second at 21-under.
This emotional win, achieved just a week after withdrawing from the SJM Macao Open due to neck spasms, marked Tabuena’s fourth Asian Tour title—making him the most successful Filipino golfer in Tour history. He also surpassed US$3 million in career earnings with his first International Series triumph.
Record-Breaking Victory for the Filipino Star
The 31-year-old homegrown hero thrilled the packed galleries at Sta. Elena with a stunning round that featured an eagle on the par-five 8th hole and four birdies on the back nine.
“It’s truly special. This is the biggest golf event the Philippines has ever hosted. To win it as a Filipino, in front of my people, is an incredible honour,” said Tabuena, who fell to his knees in tears after holing his winning putt on the 18th green.
Despite not being at full fitness, Tabuena credited his family, friends, and home fans for inspiring his victory. “I wasn’t 100 percent this week, but somehow we got it done. The crowd’s support meant everything. My mom turns 60 this December, and having her there made it even more special,” he added.
Strong Finishes from Asian Tour Contenders
Japan’s Kazuki Higa, who already won back-to-back titles in Korea and Chinese Taipei, surged up the leaderboard with four consecutive birdies to close his round, reclaiming the Asian Tour Order of Merit lead.
“I just wanted to stay aggressive and finish strong,” said Higa. “There are still many big tournaments ahead, so I’ll keep trusting the process and aim for another win.”
Compatriot Yosuke Asaji also found his rhythm again after a tough run on the Japan Golf Tour, shooting five-under with a remarkable holed bunker shot on the 17th hole. His strong finish secured him a spot in next week’s US$2 million Link Hong Kong Open.
International Field and LIV Stars Shine
Thailand’s Sarit Suwannarut and China’s Sampson Zheng, who shared the overnight lead with Tabuena, both carded 69s to tie for fourth at 20-under. Australian Marc Leishman led the LIV Golf contingent, finishing sixth at 19-under.
Rising American Caleb Surratt (67) and India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar (69) tied for seventh at 16-under, while star attraction Dustin Johnson wrapped up his week at 13-under, tied for 15th after a final-round 67.
Looking Ahead to Hong Kong
The International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus was the sixth of nine elevated events on the 2025 Asian Tour schedule. Next stop: the Link Hong Kong Open, where another world-class field will battle for US$2 million and valuable Order of Merit points.
