THE Philippines ushers in the new year by stepping onto the global longboarding stage with the La Union International Pro, a groundbreaking World Surf League Longboard International Qualifying event set from January 20 to 24 at Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan, La Union.

The competition is expected to draw one of the largest international fields ever assembled for a WSL longboard event, with elite surfers from across the globe chasing a rare direct pathway to the 2026 WSL Longboard Tour.

World Surf League Longboard Tour Director Will Hayden-Smith said the new qualifying format is designed to widen access and give longboarders from every region a chance to compete at the highest level.

He noted that world-class longboard talent exists far beyond traditional strongholds, and the La Union event is part of the WSL’s effort to create a truly global competitive platform.

A global stage for longboarding

Four direct qualification slots to the WSL Longboard World Tour will be awarded in La Union, raising the stakes for both international contenders and local surfers eager to prove themselves against the world’s best.

The event is open to longboarders from all WSL Longboard Qualifying Series regions, with seeding determined through a formula linked to the Challenger Series, ensuring a highly competitive and diverse field.

Monalisa Point’s consistent, high-quality waves provide an ideal setting for the landmark competition, reinforcing La Union’s reputation as one of Asia’s premier longboarding destinations.

PSC sees sports tourism boost

Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick “Patò” Gregorio welcomed the event as a major milestone for Philippine sports tourism, calling it an exciting opportunity to showcase the country’s natural assets and growing role in international sport.

Gregorio said the competition aligns with the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee’s vision, established under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to position the Philippines as a regular host of world-class sporting events.

He added that Filipino surfers are preparing to showcase not only their technical ability, but also the passion and resilience shaped by competing on home waters.

Gregorio also expressed optimism about deepening ties with the World Surf League, saying the La Union International Pro strengthens the country’s presence on the global surfing map while opening doors for local athletes to chase international dreams.