Free golf for youth in public courses?

MANILA, Philippines — For its exclusivity, golf is often associated with a certain level of wealth and status.

Now comes the recommendation of Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio and the National Golf Association of the Philippines to open government-owned golf courses across the country to the Filipino youth for free.

The initiative is in support of President Marcos’ directive to boost sports development nationwide.

Under the proposal already submitted to Malacañang for approval, Filipino boys and girls aged 18 and below would be allowed access to golf, foster early exposure and skill development, and nurture future national athletes.

Recommended inclusion in the proposed program are golf courses owned by the government – Club Intramuros in Manila, Air Force City Golf Course in Clark, Camp Aguinaldo and Veterans in Quezon City, Camp Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro, Camp John Hay in Baguio, Edwin Andrews and Zamboanga Golf Course/Beach Park in Zamboanga, Fernando Air Base in Lipa, Mactan Island in Lapu-Lapu City, Philippine Army and Philippine Navy in Taguig, Villamor in Pasay, Dumaguete/Bravo Golf Resort in Dumaguete and Paoay Lake in Ilocos Norte.

“This hasn’t been done in other countries. Malaking bagay sa golf grassroots program kung magawa natin,” said Gregorio.

To ensure the effective implementation of the program, the NGAP offers its full support in the formulation of implementing rules and regulations, including guidelines on player qualifications.

If ever, the program would break barriers – club membership, steep initiation fees, annual dues, etc.