ICTSI Elite Junior Finals Commence with North vs. South Showdown in Sta. Rosa

The ICTSI Elite Junior Finals, bringing together 48 of the nation’s premier young golfers from Luzon (North) and Visayas-Mindanao (South), officially started on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at The Country Club in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The tournament adopts a format similar to the Ryder Cup, pitting Team North against Team South in a series of matches. Competitions include Four-Ball (Best Ball) on the first day, Foursomes (Alternate Shot) on the second day, followed by Singles matches on the last day.

Team North co-captain Ryan Tambalque emphasized the strategy for the opening day, stating, "Keep the ball in the fairway and greens in regulation." He conveyed confidence in his team’s capabilities, noting their individual strength and independent training. The boys’ 7-10 age group started from the first tee, followed by the 11-14 and 15-18 divisions, while the girls began play simultaneously on the 10th tee.

"Let them enjoy the game. I’m confident in our players — lahat sila malalakas (they’re all strong), and they’ve been training independently. No matter the pairings, I know they will give their best," Tambalque added.

Meanwhile, Team South’s captain Alfred Gaccion highlighted his team’s blend of talent, experience, and tenacity. "The opposing team is equally equipped, so our focus is on fielding a balanced lineup. Fortunately, we have strong representatives in every age group," he commented.

Gaccion particularly pointed out the competitiveness of the girls’ 15-18 division, featuring players like Tashanah Balangauan, Crista Miñoza, Precious Zaragosa, and Mikela Guillermo. Team North’s squad in the same category includes Rafa Anciano, Levonne Talion, Tiffany Bernardino, and Chloe Rada.

"This is fundamentally a team event, and strong team play is crucial to overcoming challenges. Mutual support in Four-Ball and Foursomes will form the backbone of our strategy," Gaccion explained.

Tambalque also noted the camaraderie developed among Team North members through frequent tournaments and training sessions. "We see each other nearly every week, and even the parents have formed strong bonds. That chemistry is a definite advantage," he said.

The full roster for the competition is as follows:

Team North:

• Boys 7-10: Zoji Edoc, Zach Guico, Asher Abad, Halo Pangilinan
• Girls 7-10: Ronee Dungca, Mavis Espedido, Winter Serapio, Tyra Garingalao
• Boys 11-14: Vito Sarines, Zianbeau Edoc, Ryuji Suzuki, Jacob Casuga
• Girls 11-14: Lisa Sarines, Mona Sarines, Kendra Garingalao, Alexie Gabi
• Boys 15-18: Patrick Tambalque, Zachary Villaroman, Jose Carlos Taruc, Kristoffer Nadales
• Girls 15-18: Rafa Anciano, Levonne Talion, Tiffany Bernardino, Chloe Rada

Team South:

• Boys 7-10: Ethan Lago, Lucas Revilleza, Kvan Alburo, James Rolida
• Girls 7-10: Denise Mendoza, Soleil Molde, Claren Quiño, Francesca Geroy
• Boys 11-14: Ralph Batican, Ken Guillermo, Jared Saban, Marcus Dueñas
• Girls 11-14: Brittany Tamayo, Kimberly Baroquillo, Zuri Bagaloyos, Rafella Batican
• Boys 15-18: Alexis Nailga, Luciano Copok, Mhark Fernando III, Eric Jeon
• Girls 15-18: Tashanah Balangauan, Crista Miñoza, Precious Zaragosa, Mikela Guillermo

The three-day tournament promises intense competition and showcases the country’s finest junior golf talent. Fans and participants alike look forward to an engaging display of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship.