Michael Bibat fires 66 leads ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic

BACOLOD – Michael Bibat battled through relentless rain and unpredictable conditions on Tuesday to claim the first-round lead at the ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic with a four-under 66 at the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club.

Bibat rose to the occasion in challenging conditions brought on by Tropical Depression Kristine, mastering the front nine with three birdies and a lone bogey before adding birdies at Nos. 10 and 13 as others struggled to navigate the muddy fairways and handle tricky pin placements.

“But it’s not easy to play in these conditions – rain, wind and difficult pin positions,” said Bibat, whose last victory came in 2022 at Eagle Ridge. “The score could have been lower, but I accept it.”

Reymon Jaraula, winner of last week’s Bacolod Challenge, trails Bibat by two strokes after 68s, veteran Angelo Que, Rupert Zaragosa and the unknown Francis Morilla.

Lakewood’s Sean Ramos and Russell Bautista followed closely with 69s, while Tony Lascuña, who topped the Splendido Taal leg in harsh weather conditions, Hyun Ho Rho, Gerald Rosales and Randy Garalde hit even-par 70s to level the leaderboard. second place remained full. 5 Million Championship Presented by Negros Electric and Power Corp.

Que, a veteran of harsh weather conditions from his experience on the Japan Golf Tour, emphasized the importance of focus and patience on a course that played much longer than the 6,424 yards.

“We have faced worse conditions in Japan,” said Que, who secured his first Japan Tour title at the 2018 Top Cup Tokai Classic. “It’s about staying focused and adapting your game to the conditions.”

Further down the leaderboard, several notable players posted impressive rounds. Eric Gallardo, Forest Hills leg winner Keanu Jahns, Francis Mendez, Joeleo Torrecampo, American Collin Wheeler and amateur Bobe Salahog all shot 71s, while Iloilo champion Zanieboy Gialon, Ramil Bisera, Ryan Monsalve, Godofredo Sinfuego and top amateur Zeus Sara registered 72s, keeping the tournament competitive until the second round.

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