NGAP, Fedgolf okay unified handicapping

MANILA, Philippines - The National Golf Association of the Philippines and the Federation of Golf Clubs have finally agreed on the Unified National Handicapping System, ending years of talks on coming up with a high degree of uniformity in handicapping among member clubs.

NGAP secretary general Jun Arceo and Fed Golf’s Iggy Clavecilla signed the Memorandum of Agreement the other day at the Manila Golf Club with the former heaving a sigh of relief that “after six years of negotiations, it has finally come into fruition.”

“This is one giant step towards complete unification. Credit goes to the people behind both entities who espouse nothing more but love for the sport,” said Arceo.

Clavecilla, chair of Fedgolf’s handicapping, said it’s high time that those concerned get their act together, adding: “With a united effort, we can now develop our talents so we can compete successfully in the international scene.”

“We have been working on this unification for more than a year now. I am happy that our collective efforts have finally borne fruit,” said Garcia, adding that the unified handicap system will lead to a galvanization of all golfing sectors under the wings of the NGAP, being the NSA for golf.

Arceo and Clavecilla are chairmen of the handicapping committee of their respective groups.  

The NGAP will next pursue golf clubs in the Visayas and Mindanao to join its fold in its continuing commitment to reach out to all groups and have a truly unified handicapping system.

Sec. Leandro Mendoza, NGAP president, and Fedgolf chief Ogie Manalo are also expected to attend the MOA signing at 10 a.m.

Mendoza and Arceo also announced they won’t be seeking re-election in the coming NGAP polls on March 23, citing the unified handicapping system as their legacy to the sport after serving the association as president and secretary-general, respectively.