Philippines – Manila Davao Borocay – Travel Food Entertainment

     There is no other exciting and interesting place to play golf in Asia but in the Philippines. Golf is not new in the country as it was brought by the Irish from which the said sport is played as it was originated in its continent. There are just several reasons why playing golf is best done in the Philippines.
For one, varied golfing courses dot the entire archipelago and these golfing areas are not just for professionals but for neophytes as well. Some of these courses even have world-class facilities hosting both national and international tournaments. Take for example the Wack Wack  Golf and Country Club. It is located in Manila and has two 18-hole championships courses. The East Course has hosted nationwide and worldwide tournaments like the Philippine Open and World Cup. The West Course is for an all-weather championship course.
     Another reason to be in the Philippines to play golf is its scenic natural view. Even the golf courses are so natural that maintenance of the venue is all what it needs. One of the best golf courses in the Philippines with a spectacular natural view is the Camp John Hay Golf Club. It is located in the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City which is 5000 feet above sea level. Rolling hills decorate the area, crystal clear lakes occasionally pop up, and tall pine trees scent the surroundings.  It was designed by Jack Nicklaus’ Golden Bear International.  It is just a must place for any golfer!
Philippines is a tropical country, thus offering the best climate possible for a golf escapade. Any planned golf activity could never be decided as a mistake. Golf can be thoroughly enjoyed the whole year round whatever the weather is.
     The best reason, however, in playing golf in the Philippines is practicality. Playing golf in this country is just so very affordable. Hitting a few balls is never heavy for one’s pocket. Tourists can take their time fully enjoying this sport.
     These are but only some of the reasons why and nowhere else in the world!     

Del Monte is a household name known for its pineapple products such as pineapple juice and pineapple chunks.  But way down in Mindanao, specifically at Cawayanon, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, the Del Monte pineapple plantation also boasts one of the premiere golf clubs in the Philippines.  It is 10 kilometers from Cagayan de Oro where the nearest airport is.  The 35-minute drive up to the golf course provides the golfers and tourists with a great view of the mountains.

The golf course, established in 1928, is 6,390 yards, par-72, and is made up of 18 holes wherein the first 9 holes were designed by Peter Crawford and the last 9 by Celestino Tugot.  The course has fairways dotted with trees, sand traps, and man-made lakes.  Golfers may find par-3, 12`^h difficult with the need to go over 210 yards of water, that’s why this is also called the Waterloo Hole.

Since the golf course is found amidst Bukidnon’s mountain range and is in the south of the Philippines which is usually spared from typhoons --- the weather is fair and can get pretty windy.

Green fees cost PhP 500 for local residents and PhP 1200 for tourists during weekdays.  During holidays and weekends, add PhP 300 more to the weekday fees.  Caddy fees starts at PhP 250.  Golfers can also rent golf clubs for PhP 500.

This private golf club also has a pro shop, driving range, practice putting green and a clubhouse with restaurant that serves the best juicy steak in the country with bottomless pineapple juice (you don’t have to wonder why).