Manila: Philippines’ Charles Hong emerged as the highest-ranked Filipino after he closed with a seven-under-par 65 at the inaugural US$750,000 Resorts World Manila Masters on Sunday.
The 25-year-old capped his best result on the Asian Tour after compiling a four-day total of 12-under-par 276 to share ninth place with
American David Lipsky and Sri Lankan Mithun Perera, who returned with rounds of 72 and 69 respectively.

After carding a 75 in the third round, Hong managed to turn his game around on the final day by marking his card with eight birdies against a lone bogey at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club.

Hong credited his caddie, Tonlits Asistio for playing an instrumental role as he helped him navigate the challenging Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club with his good course knowledge.

Hong also took home US$14,487.67 which is also the biggest pay check he has received so far in his professional career.

“It has been a bit of a roller coaster ride for me this week. I have some friends who were affected by Typhoon Haiyan and it has always been at the back of my mind. Nevertheless, the experience has been great. My caddie helped me a lot with his course knowledge and I am very thankful for that,” said Hong.

Hong hopes to put his experience gained from the Resorts World Manila Masters to good use when he challenges for his Tour card at the Asian Tour Qualifying School next year.

“It has always been my dream to play on the Asian Tour. Finishing well this week has given me a lot of confidence to try for an Asian Tour card next year,” said Hong.

Meanwhile compatriot Angelo Que, closed with a 73 to finish in tied-25th while Rey Pagunsan, uncle of Juvic Pagunsan, 2011 Asian Tour Order of Merit winner, signed for a 72 to take a share 29th place.