Dubai: Frances Bondad, the only golfer with Filipina heritage on the Ladies European Tour is fast becoming an unlikely celebrity at the Emirates Golf Course for this weekend's Omega Ladies Masters.
The likes of Michelle Wie can walk around the compound relatively unhindered, whereas Bondad has a steady stream of Filipino expatriates endlessly posing for pictures with her.
She was born in Los Angeles, California and represents Australia given her residency there since aged three — but the Pambangsang Watawat (Philippines' flag) emblazoned on her golf bag in recognition of her family's origin has caused a wave of hysteria in Dubai.
Large attention
With large swathes of Filipinos (or Kabayans) in attendance, Bondad is ironically getting more of a reaction here than she gets anywhere else on Tour.
But the fresh-faced 22-year-old is happily taking it all in her stride handing out golf balls and signing caps.
Bondad told Gulf News: "I get a lot of support, obviously due to all the Filipinos working out here.
"It's good, I feel like I'm at home [in Cavite]. It's so nice to see them and it's good for them to see someone competing here from home. It gives them someone to cheer for."
Bondad explained that golf is still too exclusive in the Philippines and that if anything junior golf is more prominent than the professional game.
Until such time as that new generation comes through this sports-mad nation would have to support talent that wasn't necessarily home-grown.
The LPGA Tour in America has 32-year-old Manila-born, US-based Jennifer Rosales and Dorothy Delasin, but Bondad is alone on the European alternative.
She fought to make the cut at the Omega Ladies Masters and is currently three over par from scores of 78-70-71 from three days.
