DOT and WAGC PH join forces to elevate golf tourism in the Philippines

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the World Amateur Golfers Championship Philippines (WAGC PH) to strengthen cooperation in promoting golf tourism and hosting the 2025 WAGC Philippines National Finals.

The agreement, signed Friday at the DOT Central Office, outlines joint efforts in planning, promoting, and implementing the WAGC National Finals set for September 12–13, 2025 at the Dakak Golf Resort in Zamboanga del Norte. The initiative supports the Marcos administration’s push to expand multi-dimensional tourism through sports and adventure.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to boost not only tourism arrivals but also local economies. Hosting international golf events creates jobs, supports small businesses, and promotes cultural pride,” said DOT Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, who represented Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco during the signing.

Jumapao added that bringing high-profile sports events to destinations such as Mindanao would provide global exposure and sustained visitor interest beyond the tournament period.

Under the MOU, both parties committed to collaborate on marketing and tourism campaigns, extend support in media coverage and post-event promotions, and coordinate on documentation for future reference and development.

WAGC Philippines Managing Director Errol Chua lauded the strengthened partnership, citing WAGC’s track record of staging around 30 tournaments annually nationwide over the past seven years. “Today’s MOU is more than a formal agreement, it’s a commitment to work together to bring Philippine golf to greater heights, opening our fairways to the world,” he said.

Also present during the ceremonial signing were DOT Office for Golf Tourism Director Lyle Fernand Uy and WAGC Philippines Director Jose Antonio “Mark” Leviste II.