Defending champ Salvador seizes lead after two rounds of Aboitiz Invitational golf

The Philippines’ Elmer Salvador got his title-retention bid back on track when he took over the top spot at the end of round 2 of the Aboitiz Invitational golf tournament at the Cebu Country Club.

Salvador made up for his first-day setback with birdies in holes no. 16 and 17 to card a four-under 68 and put up a two-stroke lead over closest pursuer Ian Keenan of England despite the bad weather.

“It rained hard in one stretch and that made it tougher for us,” said Salvador. “Medyo manlalamig ka talaga. But I just stayed focused.”

First-day leader Brian Locke of the USA finally succumbed to the intermittent weather and dropped to fifth with 73 points.

Japan’s Gen Nagai, who is Cebu-based, made the cut alongside Cebuanos Charles Hong and LJ Go.

Nagai improved his game from a 76 on Day 1 to 67 yesterday.

Hong, on the other hand, played a better game yesterday as he improved to a 69 from a 73 at the start of the tournament.

In contrast, Go lost his grip on sixth place but still managed to bag an entry to round 3 with a 76.

Salvador will start round 3 today from tee 1 alongside Keenan and Park II-hwan of Korea, who carded a 68.

Other Filipinos who made the cut are Robert Pactolerin, Jonard Rates, Reymon Jaraula, Rogelio Laput Jr., Miguel Tabuena, Rolando Marabe, Mars Pucay, Jay and Rufino Bayron, Jhonnel Ababa, Antonio Lascuna, Roberto Bernis Jr, Angelo Que, Carl Santos-Ocampo, Anthony Fernando, Randy Garalde, Benjie Magada, Michael Bibat, Johvanie Abano, Zanie Boy Gialon, Junro Mamril, Gerald Rosales, Nilo Salahog, Albin Engino, Elmer Saban, Jessie Balasabas, Rey Pagunsan, Edward Reyes, Orlan Sumcad and Ferdinand Aunzo. /with reports from pr