Mamat in control in Philippines

A near flawless round from Singapore's Mardan Mamat has helped him take a three-shot lead at the midway point of the Philippines Open.

In difficult conditions, Mamat fired a two-under 70 to take a nice buffer into the weekend at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.

Chasing his third Asian Tour victory, Mamat showed all his experience to tame the notorious East course at the venue to lead American Ben Fox and local hopes Antonio Lascuna and Ferdinand Aunzo.

Adam Blyth is the best of the Australian's a further stroke back in a tie for fifth after he shot a two-under 70.

Only 10 players are in red figures at the halfway stage, with the cut set at six-over-par.

Mamat is delighted to lead heading into the weekend, after a difficult year on the Asian Tour in 2011.

"Last year was a nightmare. I played too much golf and I didn't know what I was doing. I'm going to take it one step at a time," he said.

"I did a lot of work-out during the off season. I spent four or five times a week in the gym with my trainer."

"I think that has helped my fitness get better. I'm feeling relaxed. If I can stay relaxed, it should be good. I have full respect for this golf course. It can make you happy and it can make you unhappy."

"I hope I will stay happy for the next two days. I like the way I'm playing."