Salvador set to defend Aboitiz Invt’l golf crown

Filipino Elmer Salvador will defend his title at the Aboitiz Invitational, which makes a return on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) for the third consecutive season later this month.

The 43-year-old Salvador dominated the event last year by defeating compatriot Antonio Lascuna by six shots. He will aim for a repeat win when he returns to the Cebu Country Club from July 24 to July 27.

Reigning ADT Order of Merit winner Jay Bayron of the Philippines, talented local teenager Miguel Tabuena, Artemio Murakami, a former Asian Tour winner and ADT regular Carl Santos-Ocampo, will also compete in the US$65,000 event.

James Bowen of the United States, Grant Jackson of England, highly rated James Byrne of Scotland and Mitsuhiko Hashizume of Japan, currently ranked second, third, fourth and fifth on the Order of Merit respectively, will banner the international challenge.

Salvador came close to winning his first Asian Tour title in 2011 and 2012 but lost on both occasions in a play-off. He made amends when he claimed a popular home victory at the Aboitiz Invitational and hopes to write a small slice of history by becoming the first player to defend his title on the ADT, which is the feeder circuit for the premier Asian Tour.

“It felt good when I shot even-par and won last year. I remember my driving was horrible and I hooked a lot of tee shots. Luckily, my putting and short game guided me to victory,” said Salvador.

Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han expressed his fullest appreciation to Aboitiz for supporting the development of professional golf via its title sponsorship on the ADT.

“The ADT has grown immensely over the past few years and it is largely due to the support that we receive from great sponsors like Aboitiz. We are thankful that Aboitiz is a strong advocate of the development golf,” said Han.

For four years now, the Aboitiz Group, which has major investments in power, banking, food, and land, has been organizing the Invitational Pro-Am as part of the ADT.

“Consistent with our corporate value of teamwork, this collaboration has rewarded us with stronger bonds and equally unique camaraderie among business partners, colleagues, and stakeholders,” said Aboitiz Equity Ventures President and CEO Erramon I. Aboitiz.  /PR