BACOLOD CITY: Rupert Zaragosa emerged as the champion of the ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic golf tournament, which was cut short by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami). The final round was canceled due to heavy rainfall that rendered the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club unplayable.
According to Philippines News Agency, the tournament concluded after 36 holes, with Zaragosa’s second-round 66 securing him a six-stroke victory over seasoned players Tony Lascuña and Reymon Jaraula. Zaragosa finished with a total score of six-under 134. Despite the abrupt end, Zaragosa expressed satisfaction with the outcome, though he lamented the inability to complete the full 72 holes. He dedicated his win to his hospitalized grandfather.
This victory marks Zaragosa’s second career title on the Philippine Golf Tour, earning him PHP450,000. He is set to compete in the ICTSI Match Play Championship in Laguna next month. Reflecting on his performance, Zaragosa acknowledged the challenges faced throughout the year and
expressed gratitude for his strong finish.
Lascuña and Jaraula shared second place with scores of 140, each receiving PHP232,500. Lascuña, who won the Splendido Taal leg in July, recorded a round of 70, while Jaraula, the recent winner of the Binitin leg in Murcia, finished with a 72. Six players tied for fourth place with scores of 141, including Collin Wheeler, Keanu Jahns, Russell Bautista, Sean Ramos, Francis Morilla, and first-round leader Michael Bibat, each receiving PHP91,250.