Lisa Sarines eyes redemption, breakthrough at Philippine Ladies Open

Lisa Sarines

Pilipinas Golf

MANILA, Philippines — Lisa Sarines isn’t just returning to the Philippine Ladies Open — she’s coming back with unfinished business.

A year after suffering a heartbreaking one-stroke defeat, Sarines is entering the 54-hole championship unfolding February 24 at the posh Manila Golf Club in Makati with renewed focus, sharpened skills and a burning resolve to finally break through.

“I’ve been preparing a lot mentally and physically,” Sarines told philstar.com. “I’ve worked on getting stronger and really honing my skills around the green. I want to be sharper in the moments that matter most.”

That preparation is fueled by a painful memory.

Last year at the Valley Golf Club, Sarines appeared headed for a playoff before Korea’s Yunjun An produced a moment of magic on the par-3 18th — striking the flagstick and converting a birdie to snatch the title by a single stroke.

“I lost by one last year,” she said. “But I know I can win this. I want it badly — and I’m going to do everything I can to get it done.”

That hunger — sharpened rather than dulled by defeat — could make Sarines one of the early contenders in a field expected to feature another strong international cast. The Philippine Ladies Open remains one of the region’s premier proving grounds, regularly attracting top local talents and rising stars from across Asia and beyond.

The tournament has historically served as a launchpad for bigger stages, most notably for Jennifer Rosales, who ruled the event five straight years starting in 1994 before turning professional and eventually becoming the first Filipina to win on the LPGA Tour in 2004.

Sarines hopes to follow a similar path — and she believes she is better equipped this time around.

Her improvements have been deliberate. Beyond refining her short game, she has strengthened her mental approach, focusing on composure under pressure and closing ability — key elements that often separate contenders from champions.

“I’m very hungry to win,” she added.

She won’t be alone in the hunt.

Twin sister Mona Sarines is equally determined to improve on last year’s seventh-place finish. While Lisa’s motivation is redemption, Mona’s drive is rooted in consistency and quiet confidence.

“My outlook for this tournament is very positive,” said Mona. “I’ve been practicing consistently and I feel good about my game. I’m confident I can compete at a high level.”

But for Mona, success will hinge on poise.

“I expect to stay composed under pressure and give my best on every stroke, every hole and every round. That’s my focus— to be steady and fully committed from start to finish,” said Mona.

The Sarines twins have toughened their games through the Junior Philippine Golf Tour, where they have been dominant forces, while also gaining valuable international exposure as members of the national team. Competing against elite fields has sharpened both their technical skills and competitive instincts.

Now, back at Manila Golf Club — the tournament’s traditional home — the stage is set for a potential breakthrough.

For Lisa, it’s about finishing what she started.

For Mona, it’s about rising even higher.

Together, the twins represent both promise and persistence — and perhaps, this year, the fulfillment of a long-awaited championship dream.