He had one birdie, 15 pars against two bogeys to take a one-stroke lead in the 54-hole event.
"This tournament is full of surprises," Manotoc told MMGC golf operations manager Jack Imperial after the round. "First, there’s no hustle driving over here. Second, Mount Malarayat is just great."
Rolly Viray, Manotoc’s teammate at Canlubang, came up with a 74 to take second place, while Dave Hernandez stayed in contention after a 75.
Also slated to start today are the first-round competitions in Classes A, B and C at the Lubo and Malipunyo courses.
Sta. Elena’s Jinky Tuason carded a 76 to place fourth, followed by Malarayat’s Abe Avena and Pitong Quiocho and Jun Bernis of Canlubang with 77s.
Mike Carr, the Mount Malarayat’s golf director, failed to take advantage of home course advantage when he struggled with a 78 to settle for a share of eighth spot with Alabang’s Wigberto "Iggy" Clavecilla.
Toti Turalba of the organizing committee, hit the ceremonial drive to officially open the tournament.