CLARK FREEPORT ZONE – The Department of Tourism (DOT) officially introduced the Philippine Golf Experience (GolfEx) on Friday, August 29, 2025, during a ceremony held at Mimosa Plus Golf Course in Clark, Pampanga. The event showcased golf lessons and a tournament featuring diplomats, enthusiasts, and professional players.

GolfEx is an initiative under the DOT’s Philippine Experience Program, designed to elevate the Philippines as a top golf destination within the region. During the launch, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized the broader impact of tourism, stating, "It’s not only about the number of arrivals, but also about sustaining livelihoods, strengthening enterprises, and fostering pride within our communities."

She further highlighted the advantages of golf tourism, saying, "Golf is a sustainable, high-value, low-impact form of tourism that encourages visitors to stay longer, spend more, and form deeper connections with our destinations, often leading to repeat visits."

Elisa Bulawit, Executive Secretary of the Professional Golfers Association of the Philippines, underscored the country’s potential in golfing tourism. "The Philippines boasts numerous world-class golf courses that remain undiscovered by many enthusiasts. Comparable to Vietnam’s strategy of promoting their top courses, we have great opportunities to attract more golfers," she remarked. She added that courses across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao are rated highly in terms of quality and service.

The DOT is targeting increased golf tourism from key markets such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States, as well as expanding outreach to Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Southeast Asian countries.

Secretary Frasco noted the unique appeal of golfing in the Philippines, emphasizing that "our destinations offer more than excellent courses – visitors can enjoy activities such as beach visits and diving alongside their golf experience."

The launch ceremony featured a ceremonial tee-off led by Secretary Frasco, alongside Senator Lito Lapid, Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Vietnamese Ambassador Thai Binh Lai, Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts, Clark Development Corporation President Agnes Devanadera, and industry leaders from the tourism and business sectors.

Mimosa Plus, a premier golf facility located near an international airport, is among over 100 golf courses nationwide. A recent report from Leechiu Property Consultants revealed plans for at least seven new golf estates, including Marina Estates, Nascala Coast, Arillo in Nasugbu, and several projects in Batangas by top developers such as Megaworld, Ayala Land, and Rockwell Land.

This initiative marks a significant step in positioning the Philippines as a competitive and sustainable golf tourism destination in Asia.