Final Resorts Masters tees off for charity

MANILA, Philippines -  The fifth and final leg of the $1 million Resorts World Manila Masters, scheduled in November at the world-class Manila Southwoods, will be different from the previous ones.

This year’s edition will have a touch of charity.

“This one holds a special place in our hearts,” said Resorts World Manila CEO Stephen Reilly of the event that will benefit the qualified heirs of the victims of a tragic incident last June 2.

Dozens were killed and injured when a lone assailant staged a daring attack at RWM in a robbery attempt at the casino area.

“Not only is it the final edition of the RWM Masters, it is also in loving memory of the employees and guests we lost during the senseless incident in June,” said Reilly.

The finest golfers from the Asian Tour will see action from Nov. 9 to 12 at Manila Southwoods, each one of them playing a part in the worthy cause.

“We stand by our commitment to honor our dear departed whilst helping those they left behind move forward,” Reilly added.

The tournament was formally presented to the media yesterday at the Diplomatic Hall of Marriott Hotel, exactly two months after the tragic incident.

Joining Reilly during the launch were Manila Southwoods chairman Bob Sobrepeña and Asian Tour commercial director Jeff Kimble. 

On display inside the room were the coveted RWM Masters red jacket and the towering beauties from the Mutya ng Pilipinas.

The Asian Tour, through its CEO, John Burack, sent a message.

“The Asian Tour stands united with our partners, Resorts World Manila, in the face of the recent tragedy. We deeply feel aggrieved for the families affected by the incident and hope to do a small part through this fundraising activity,” said the Asian Tour.

Since 2013, the RWM Masters has brought and provided a star-studded tournament that’s easily three times bigger than the other major golf tournaments in the country.

The champion gets the lion’s share of $180,000 or roughly P9 million.