Our Founder: Tony Taylor

Ponderosa Golf & Country Club began as the vision of Tony Taylor, an adventurer and long-time resident of Puerto Galera who fell in love with the island’s breathtaking cliffs and sweeping ocean views.

In the early 1990s, Tony stood atop the mountain ridge that would later become Ponderosa and imagined a place where people from around the world could gather, slow down, and experience the beauty of nature from above the clouds.

What started as a personal dream grew into one of Puerto Galera’s most iconic landmarks — a mountain-top golf course unlike any other in the Philippines.

Tony poured his energy into shaping the fairways, building the community around the property, and cultivating a welcoming space for locals, travelers, and residents who came to call Ponderosa their home.

A Vision Ahead of Its Time

Tony was known for his optimism, his warmth, and his belief that great destinations are built not just on stunning views, but on genuine hospitality. He envisioned Ponderosa as more than a golf course — it was a sanctuary, a gathering place, and a living tribute to the island he loved.

His Legacy Lives On

After Tony’s passing in 2011, the Ponderosa community rallied to continue what he started. In 2019, the next generation of leadership began restoring and revitalizing the property, honoring Tony’s original spirit while expanding Ponderosa into a modern golf and leisure destination.

Today, every improvement — from course rehabilitation to new experiences for guests — reflects the same principles Tony championed: his love for nature, community-building, adventure, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for Puerto Galera’s beauty.

Looking Forward

Ponderosa stands today as a tribute to Tony’s vision: a place where guests can experience the magic of the mountains and the sea, just as he did decades ago. We are committed to carrying his legacy forward as we shape the next chapter of Ponderosa Golf & Country Club.