CAVINTI, Laguna. — Harmie Constantino returns to the very site of one of her most emphatic victories, hoping to reignite the form that once made her the undisputed queen of the local tour as the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship unwraps Tuesday here.
Once a consistent force on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, Constantino has recently struggled with inconsistency. But at Caliraya Springs, a course where she tasted glory just a year ago, she’s determined to turn things around – and turn heads once again.
The fierce yet composed Constantino edged Epson Tour campaigner Pauline del Rosario by two strokes here last season, then rode the momentum to clinch the Philippine Ladies Masters and dominate the weather-disrupted Negros Occidental finale, sealing the Order of Merit crown.
Since then, however, the road has been far less triumphant. Her recent finishes – 22nd at Pradera Verde, a tie for 20th at Eagle Ridge, and a share of 13th at Forest Hills – reflect a slump that has dampened what was once a blazing career trajectory.
Now back on familiar turf, Constantino isn’t just eyeing a return to the winner’s circle – she’s seeking redemption and a revival, intent on silencing doubts and reigniting the fire that fueled her rise.
But standing in her way is arguably one of the deepest and most competitive 21-player fields assembled this season – a compact yet formidable roster brimming with experience, raw talent and equally fierce determination.
Mafy Singson, one of the most consistent stars this year, is eyeing another title run after a dramatic playoff win over Bisera at Eagle Ridge and a runner-up finish to Chanelle Avaricio at Forest Hills. Armed with confidence and fresh from a China Tour stint, the Davaoeña heads to Caliraya ready and recharged.
“The break gave me time to rest, work on my game and overall fitness,” said Singson, who missed the chance for another title crack at Valley, where she scored her first pro win in 2023. “I was really looking forward to that event, but I used the time to focus on what I could control – strength training, conditioning, and sharpening my game.”
While eager to perform well, Singson remains grounded. “It’s been windy lately, so I’ve prepared for all conditions,” she added. “I’m not setting specific expectations. I’m just ready to compete and enjoy the week.”
Princess Superal, a multiple-time LPGT champion, is just as hungry for redemption following a string of lukewarm finishes. Known for her poise and precision, Superal looms large as a serious contender if she regains her rhythm.
Florence Bisera, a consistent threat all season, is eyeing another victory, while Mikha Fortuna, seasoned Marvi Monsalve, and promising Kayla Nocum are all itching for a shot at the crown in the 54-hole event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.
Adding intrigue to the mix are Koreans Tiffany Lee and Kim Seoyun, who both figured prominently in Pradera Verde, with Lee flashing early brilliance before fading, and Kim tying for runner-up honors.
Veterans Sarah Ababa and Chihiro Ikeda, both capable of pulling off big finishes, also bolster the field, while the likes of Gretchen Villacencio, Martina Miñoza and promising names such as Velinda Castil and Pamela Mariano are expected to make their presence felt.
Lee, who showed flashes of brilliance early in the season, remains a wildcard. The pressure of contention may have weighed her down in past outings, but if she manages to channel her potential and stay steady under fire, the young Korean could be a game-changer.
Despite the short lineup, the tournament promises intense competition with no clear runaway favorite. With each player entering with either something to prove or something to defend, the Caliraya Springs Championship sets up a compelling battle not just of skill and form – but of mental toughness, adaptability and championship grit.
As Constantino looks to reclaim her throne, the rest of the field is just as eager to rewrite the script – turning Caliraya into a test of redemption, resurgence and fierce rivalry.
