Manila Masters returns with $1 million boost

Manila, July 23 (IANS) The second edition of the Resorts World Manila Masters on the Asian Tour will offer a record prize fund of $1 million in November, golf officials announced Wednesday.

The highly successful Resorts World Manila Masters, which offered a prize fund of $750,000 last year, will also boast a new presenting sponsor in 918.com when the prestigious event returns to Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club from Nov 20-23.

918.com is one of Asia's leading online casino companies with First Cagayan Leisure and Resort Corporation (FCLRC) license from the Philippines. It is headquartered in Makati, Philippines, and offers entertainment to gaming enthusiasts as well as cooperating with famous international software providers.

The inaugural Resorts World Manila Masters went down as one of the most exciting battles ever seen on the Asian Tour with Chinese star Liang Wen-chong coming from behind to pip Thailand's Prom Meesawat in a thrilling play-off.

It also witnessed a gratifying act of kindness by the Chinese champion, who donated half of his prize winnings towards the relief efforts in the country following the damage caused by Typhoon Haiyan.

With its inaugural success and subsequent return of the Resorts World Manila Masters presented by 918.com, the golf and the tourism sectors in the Philippines have now received a major boost that further elevates its stature both locally and globally.

Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han lauded Resorts World Manila's decision to raise the tournament's prize money by another $250,000 and believes the million-dollar purse will further elevate its stature in Asia.

"With great title sponsors such as Resorts World Manila and a new presenting sponsor in 918.com, professional golf in Asia will continue to grow and hosts exciting tournaments such as the Resorts World Manila Masters presented by 918.com.

"I have every belief that this tournament will become one of the most highly anticipated tournaments on the Asian Tour and on behalf of our talented players, I would like to express our fullest appreciation to Resorts World Manila and 918.com for their support of professional golf at the highest level in Asia," said Han.