Lucas Revilleza (left) used his familiarity with the challenging layout of the Apo Golf and Country Club in the ICTSI Junior PGT Championship on Monday (July 14, 2025) in Davao City. He carded a one-under 71 to share the lead with Cagayan de Oro’s Jamie Barnes in the boys’ 7-10 division. (Contributed photo)
Davao City – Eight-year-old Lucas Revilleza delivered a standout performance in the opening round of the ICTSI Junior PGT Championship on Monday at the Apo Golf and Country Club, using his local knowledge to his advantage.
Revilleza, a student at Rizal Memorial Colleges Inc., carded a one-under-par 71, thanks to four birdies against three bogeys, to grab a share of the lead in the boys’ 7-10 division alongside Cagayan de Oro’s Jamie Barnes.
“I was really nervous at first, but I just focused and trusted. I hope I can win it on my home course,” said Revilleza, who is aiming for a two-under finish to secure his first win in the four-leg Mindanao swing. He previously placed third in Del Monte, second in Pueblo de Oro, and third in South Pacific.
Barnes, who found himself three shots behind Revilleza after a double bogey on the par-3 11th, stormed back with birdies on holes 13 and 14 before closing with two more to match Revilleza’s 71. The Cagayan de Oro native is seeking to sweep the Mindanao swing, having won the first three legs in an impressive Junior PGT debut.
“I think I played well and made a lot of birdies. I like the course—it’s tough, but the greens are pretty easy. I prefer fast greens, though. Hopefully, I can win again,” said Barnes.
Cebu’s Kvan Alburo finished the round in third with a 77, followed by Shaqeeq Tanog (85) and James Rolida (90).
In the girls’ division, Davao’s Soleil Molde remained in contention for a second straight title despite a challenging round of 78. The Del Monte leg winner struggled with her drives and putts but stayed positive.
“I struggled with my driving and putting, but I’m confident. God is with me, and it’s all up to Him. We’re going to plan—and let God do the bigger one,” Molde said.
Pueblo de Oro champion Claren Quiño wrapped up the day with an 89, while Zoey Mascariñas and Kassandra Morente tallied 93 and 103, respectively.