Baguio Elevates Sports Tourism Growth in the Philippines with Fil-Am Invitational Golf Tournament, Positioning Itself as a Premier Golf Destination

Published on November 6, 2025

The Fil-Am Invitational Golf Tournament promises to be a massive boost in positioning Baguio as a global golf destination, further raising its stock in sports tourism. According to Anthony de Leon, general manager of BCC and co-chairman of Fil-Am, the organizers are in close coordination with JHMC to offer special golf tourism packages to attract international golfers. These will include play at two of the most scenic and historic golf courses in the country, Camp John Hay and BCC, nestled in the beautiful cool climate of the Cordillera Mountains.

Golf Tourism Packages to Attract International Visitors

The Fil-Am Invitational has long been one of the largest amateur golf events in the Asia-Pacific region, and now, in its 75th year, organizers are looking to expand the tournament’s scope and impact. De Leon noted that they are working with JHMC President Manjit Singh Reandi to create special golf tourism packages that will include not only the Fil-Am event but also other golfing experiences at BCC and Camp John Hay, two world-class golf courses in the heart of Baguio.

The goal is to enhance Baguio’s appeal as a golf destination by offering all-inclusive packages that will attract both competitive players and leisure travelers looking for a unique golfing experience. These initiatives will provide a more comprehensive tourism experience by combining golf, wellness, nature tourism, and the cool climate that makes Baguio a year-round destination.

Supporting the Government’s Sports Tourism Vision

This push for golf tourism is part of a broader effort to develop sports tourism in the Philippines, aligning with the recently established National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC), under Administrative Order No. 38. The NST-IAC’s aim is to coordinate and strengthen sports tourism efforts nationwide by tapping into the global appeal of events like the Fil-Am Invitational and positioning the Philippines as a premier sports tourism destination.

In the context of golf, Baguio’s combination of historic courses and modern amenities, coupled with its cooler mountain climate, gives it a unique advantage in the competitive sports tourism market. By offering golf packages that cater to both professional players and leisure tourists, Baguio is well on its way to becoming a top golf destination not only in Asia but on the global stage.

The Fil-Am Invitational: A Long-standing Tradition with Growing International Appeal

Now in its 75th year, the Fil-Am Invitational remains the longest-running and largest amateur golf tournament in the Asia-Pacific region. The event is set to run from November 25 to December 13, 2025, and is expected to host a record 301 teams, up from 260 last year, attracting over 1,500 golfers, including alternates. At least 25 percent of the teams will be coming from overseas, underscoring the tournament’s international appeal and its growing influence on sports tourism in the region.

The continued success of the Fil-Am Invitational is a testament to its tradition of camaraderie, friendly competition, and the unique experience it offers golfers of all backgrounds. Originally a friendly game between government and military officials in the postwar era, it has since evolved into a high-profile event that brings together golfers from across the globe. By integrating this tournament into the broader sports tourism strategy, Baguio is able to leverage its established reputation to attract more international visitors to its golf courses and the region as a whole.

Arkia Airlines to Expand Air Connectivity, Boosting Sports Tourism

In addition to Air India’s direct flights, Arkia Airlines, an Israeli carrier, has expressed a keen interest in restarting direct routes to India and Israel from Baguio. Arkia is exploring the use of long-range Airbus A321neo LR jets for these new routes, further enhancing air connectivity to Baguio and improving access for international golfers and sports tourists. The expansion of air routes is another key element of the broader sports tourism initiative in the region, as it increases the accessibility of Baguio as a golf tourism destination.

The Role of Golf in Baguio’s Sports Tourism Strategy

The strategic focus on golf tourism is part of a larger push to integrate sports tourism into Baguio’s identity. Golf tourism plays a vital role in the development of sports tourism, as it attracts high-net-worth individuals and offers economic benefits such as increased spending on accommodation, food and beverage, and transportation. The creation of golf tourism packages also serves to boost local businesses by encouraging longer stays and repeat visits from international tourists.

By enhancing its position as a golf tourism hub, Baguio will not only attract more golfers but also encourage visitors to explore the city’s other offerings, including nature tourism, cultural sites, and wellness retreats, making it a diverse destination for all types of tourists. This broader approach is expected to have a significant economic impact, fostering job creation and sustainable tourism development in the region.

Baguio’s Future as a Sports Tourism Leader

As the Fil-Am Invitational Golf Tournament continues to increase in size and scope, Baguio is well on its way to becoming a leading golf destination in the Asia-Pacific region. The sports tourism initiative, supported by all-inclusive golf tourism packages, increased air connectivity, and local partnerships, offers a sound base that will drive Baguio’s future in sports tourism. With continued emphasis on promotions for both golf and sports tourism, Baguio is in position to attract more international visitors, cement its status as a high-caliber sports tourism destination, and ensure long-term, sustainable growth.