MANILA, Philippines — Filipino professional golfer Justin Quiban has earned a place in the field for the 2026 Rocket Classic on the PGA Tour after an impressive performance in Monday Qualifying, marking another significant milestone in one of Philippine golf’s most inspiring international careers.
Quiban secured one of only four qualifying spots by firing a 6-under-par 66 at The Orchards Golf Club in Michigan, advancing through one of the most demanding qualification processes in professional golf.
The qualification marks Quiban’s second career PGA Tour start and his first since making his debut at the 2021 3M Open.
For Quiban, however, the achievement represents much more than a return to the PGA Tour.
Over the past several years, the 30-year-old has quietly built one of the most extensive international careers by a Filipino golfer, competing throughout the Asian Tour and across New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Morocco. Rather than following a traditional path through the United States, Quiban has earned his opportunities by competing around the world against some of golf’s strongest fields.
His journey to Detroit was equally remarkable.
Fresh off competing in Morocco, Quiban traveled to the United States to visit family before deciding to enter the Rocket Classic qualifying process. After advancing through the pre-qualifier, he produced a brilliant final-round 66 in Monday Qualifying to secure his place in the tournament.
The accomplishment is especially meaningful because it was earned—not through an exemption or sponsor’s invitation—but by advancing through one of professional golf’s most competitive qualifying pathways.
Reflecting on his return to the PGA Tour, Quiban believes the experience gained over the past five years has prepared him for the opportunity.
“Back in the 3M, I didn’t know what I was doing. Now that I’ve gained experience playing with LIV Golf players on the Asian Tour, I won’t be so distracted as I was back in 2021. I think I’ll be coming in with more experience, not being too starstruck. We’ll see if I can show off my potential.”
Known for his calm demeanor and relentless work ethic, Quiban has become one of the Philippines’ leading ambassadors for professional golf, representing the country across multiple continents while steadily earning respect on the international stage.
His qualification for the Rocket Classic stands as another milestone—not only in his own career, but for Philippine golf—as he continues to demonstrate that Filipino athletes can compete and succeed at the highest levels of the sport.
The 2026 Rocket Classic will be played at Detroit Golf Club from July 31 to August 3, 2026.
