Filipino Golfers in the Middle East (Figme) and the Filipino Golf Society joined forces to raise almost Dh12,000 for the Philippines relief effort in the wake of the recent Typhoon Ondoy at their Golf for a Cause tournament at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club.
The sum, which converts to 147,000 Philippines pesos, was raised through pledges and donations from all the participants despite the tournament being hosted at short notice due to the nature of the emergency.
On the course, 18-handicapper Rudy Abalos emerged as the overall champion with his return of 36 stableford points.
Figme chairman Ramon Navea thanked all who participated for their support, including FGS captain Joseph Mogallos and the Director of Golf at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Martin Duff, for agreeing to host the event at short notice.
Navea pledged that Figme and the FGS would continue to assist the displaced families in their own little way.
Platinum A Division (handicap 0-15) was fiercely contested between Nestor Labis (9), Randy Lanza (9) and J.V. delos Santos (15). But it was Labis with 33 points who emerged as the winner just a point ahead.
The Gold B Division (16-21) was led by Jean Pierre Simon (20) whose 34 points was easily enough to relegate Caloy Bengco and Richard Bayliss to second and third places, both with 30.
Rommel Camara (22) captured the Silver C Division (22-36) with 34 points, just one ahead of Rogel Rabino (22) who is proving himself to be a candidate for Figme Rookie of the Year.