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The Disc Golf Association of the Philippines (DGAP) is planning to establish a partnership with the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) to introduce and develop disc golf within the institution.
DGAP National Director Maria Luisa Bartolome Robins, who also serves as the Asia Ambassador of the Global Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), visited USM along with Christian Fernando, the country’s number one disc golf player, to discuss the proposed collaboration.
The interview took place on September 25, 2025 at the USM Women’s Dormitory, Kabacan, Cotabato, where Robins explained that the partnership aims to train PE teachers and integrate disc golf into USM’s curriculum as an individual or dual sport.
“We’re here for the partnership and to help the university include this sport in its program,” Robins said. She added that the idea of bringing disc golf to USM originated from Dr. Che Abdulshaik F. Plang, the grandson of the USM founder, who plays the sport in the United States and believes that it fits USM’s community-centered foundation.
“He feels that this sport belongs here because USM was built with love for the community and disc golf is a community sport,” Robins shared.
Disc golf, a sport that combines elements of golf and frisbee, promotes inclusivity, outdoor recreation, and environmental appreciation. Fernando, a national athlete set to represent the Philippines in the Southeast Asian Games, said the sport provides physical, social, and emotional benefits.
“It helps you build connections, stay active, and connect with nature,” he said.
On October 1, 2025, Plang turned over disc golf equipment to USM as part of their plan to build a partnership with the university and help introduce the sport to the campus community.
