Sarit Suwannarut stretches lead in Philippines as Bhullar stays in contention

Thailand’s Sarit Suwannarut tightened his grip on the International Series Philippines, firing a second straight brilliant round to move four shots clear at the halfway mark of the US$2 million event at Sta. Elena Golf Club.

The two-time International Series champion followed his opening 64 with a six-under 66 to reach 14-under-par, pulling away from local favorite Miguel Tabuena, whose stunning 65 included a hole-in-one and an eagle in a span of three holes. Japan’s Kazuki Higa matched Tabuena at 10-under with a solid 69.

India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar stayed well in touch with the leaders, posting a three-under 69 to sit tied-eighth at eight-under, alongside Patrick Reed, Denzel Ieremia, and others. Compatriots Ajeetesh Sandhu (69) and Karandeep Kochhar (70) were also steady, finishing at five-under and four-under respectively to make the cut.

Sarit’s second round began dramatically when his opening drive found the penalty area, only for him to save birdie from 50 yards. “That birdie kept the momentum going,” said Sarit. “I’ve been playing well the last few weeks, and I’m just focusing on my own game. So far, it’s working nicely.”

Home fans roared as Tabuena surged up the board with his spectacular ace on the 14th and a late birdie run. “It’s special to do it at home, in front of friends and family,” said the Filipino star.

The event marks the sixth stop of the Asian Tour’s International Series, part of the LIV Golf qualification pathway, with three more events to come before the season-ending PIF Saudi International in November.

Photo – Gaganjeet Bhullar/Asian Tour