Manila, Philippines: The Philippine Open, the region’s oldest national Open, will return this year boasting record prize money of US$1 million and with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) as presenting partner.

To be staged over the Masters Course at Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club from November 12-15, it will play a crucial role in deciding who wins the Order of Merit race.

This year will mark the first time that the tournament, which was inaugurated in 1913, has reached the US$1 million mark in prize money, double the purse on offer last year when Frenchman Julien Sale earned his maiden Tour win. It will also be the most lucrative sports event in the country this year.

For PSC, the announcement represents an important extension of its relationship with the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) and the Asian Tour, and its commitment to promoting the best sporting events in the Philippines.

PSC was also presenting partner for the Philippine Golf Championship this year – the Asian Tour’s season-opening event.

Patrick Gregorio, Chairman, PSC, said: “Sports is a key to unlocking the Philippines’ potential for golf tourism. Our people, our athletes, and our destinations are ready to host events of this level.

“Through partnerships with NGAP and the Asian Tour, we want to continue raising the bar – creating greater opportunities for athlete development, destination development, and ultimately for Philippine sports and tourism.”

The Philippine Open returned to the Asian Tour in 2025 following a hiatus of 10 years.

Local hero Miguel Tabuena has confirmed he will compete and attempt to claim the title for a third time after victories in 2015 and 2018. He triumphed in the International Series Philippines last year, for one of his country’s greatest sporting victories.

Al Panlilio, President, NGAP, said: “Breaking the US$1 million mark is a landmark moment for the Philippine Open and a powerful statement about the growth and potential of golf in the Philippines.

“With the support of the Philippine Sports Commission, the Asian Tour and Manila Southwoods, we are giving our players a bigger stage while showcasing the Philippines as a world-class golf and sports destination. NGAP is proud to help take the Philippine Open to this next level.”

Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO, Asian Tour, said: “We welcomed back the Philippine Open with open arms at the start of last year, and we are excited to see it back this year in such a prominent position. It’s an event of huge importance to us, as is our relationship with the NGAP.

“The tournament is a natural fit for the ambitions of the Philippine Sports Commission, and along with Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club, we are grateful for their backing and enthusiasm.”

This year will mark the sixth time that Manila Southwoods has staged the event having previously acted as host in 1993, 1994, 1996, 1999 and 2025.

Bob Sobrepena, President, Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club, said: “We are pleased to host the 2026 Philippine Open and be a part of the Asian Tour. Our club has always supported both amateur and professional golf and there is no other event larger than the Philippine Open which will showcase the best of Philippine golf.

“We will do our best to prepare and present our golf course at its very best to provide a true test of championship golf for all the participants. We thank the National Golf Association of the Philippines and the Asian Tour for holding this prestigious event at our club. Rest assured we will do our part to ensure the success of this year’s Philippine Open.”