The executive committee, through a co-chairman U-Bix Corp. president Edilberto Bravo and National Golf Association of the Philippines president Benny Gopez, finalized the dates during a meeting early this month at the Grappa’s Ristorante in Makati City.

"Once again, I am very elated to announce the staging our fifth championship,’’ said Bravo of the event which used to have a December playdate.

Format calls for alternate shots between the professional and his amateur partner

Before the meeting at Grappa’s, Bravo sealed the deal with Konica Minolta group manager Morichi Miyazaki, who agreed to be the title sponsor together with U-Bix Corp. as tournament presenter.

"Since launching in 2001, our event has been successful with our pros teaming up beautifully with the amateurs performing admirably. I wish them all luck again. May the best team prevail,’’ Bravo added.

A total of R1.7M in prizes is at stake according to organizing committee chair and Riviera Golf president Commodore Danny Pizarro.

Gerard Cantada and amateur partner JR Tanpinco are expected to go for their third straight title. Noli Kempis and Erwin Vinluan were the first champions while Raul Miñoza and brother Paul were next.