1 month ago
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The Philippine Star
February 14, 2025 | 12:00am
Members of Del Monte team celebrate after winning the PAL Seniors Interclub title.
STAR / File
BACOLOD CITY , Philippines — Yoyong Velez and Raul Miñoza fired on all cylinders to lead Del Monte to a successful title defense in the Philippine Airlines Senior Interclub tournament at Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club in Bacolod City Thursday.
Velez and Miñoza each carded 53 points, helping Del Monte turn what was expected to be a fierce competition into a dominant victory.
“We thought we had the strongest team in the final round,” said Velez, the long-time team captain. “Our strategy paid off.”
It marked the first time Del Monte won the tournament outside its home course.
“Nobody can say now that we can’t win outside Del Monte,” Velez said, paying tribute to his teammates for their dedication. “We have been practicing every day for the last month.”
With Crispin Aparilla adding 47 points, Del Monte posted a tournament-best 153 points, securing a nine-point victory over Luisita and Manila Southwoods.
Del Monte made its move early, taking a three-point lead over Luisita at the turn. Miñoza was 1-under while Velez was even par. Both players faced challenges in the last two holes.
Luisita took second place, edging Southwoods via countback. The Tarlac-based squad posted 143 points, with contributions from Ronnie Littaua (49), Steven McDonald (48) and Rolando Punzalan (46).
Southwoods rallied with 146 points to tie Luisita. Don Breganza matched Plana’s 51 points while either Thirdy Escaño or Rusty Bayani’s 44 counted.
