The excitement of Philippine surfing will peak this October as Siargao hosts the Siargao International 6000 Surfing Cup from October 23 to 31. Recognized as the highest-ranking WSL (World Surf League) qualifying series ever held in the country, the event further cements the Philippines’ place as a premier global surfing destination.

This landmark competition is open to participants worldwide, attracting 128 male and 64 female surfers from countries including China, Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, and the host nation. The stakes are high, with a $50,000 prize for the champions, making it one of the most sought-after events in the sport.

A major push for sports tourism in the Philippines

Earlier in the year, the WSL successfully staged the World Junior Championships in La Union. Now, this bigger, high-profile tournament aims to elevate sports tourism in the Philippines even further. Sports Ambassador Vincent Marcos, an avid surfer himself, emphasized the dual benefits of the event—both for athletes and local communities.

“I love all sports but surfing has a very special place in my heart,” said Marcos during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum. “It’s the perfect opportunity for the Philippines to show that our surfing destinations are truly world class.”

Also in attendance were key figures such as Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio, House Committee on Youth and Sports chairman Rep. Mike Dy, Aurora Lone District Rep. Rommel Angara, United Philippine Surfing Association president Dr. Raul Canlas, tournament technical director John Carby, world No. 3 longboard champion Jay-R Esquivel, and Siargao Surf Association’s Nildie Blancada.

Showcasing the beauty and hospitality of Philippine surfing spots

PSC chairman Gregorio reaffirmed that hosting such prestigious competitions is part of a larger sports tourism initiative. “With 7,100 islands, how can we go wrong? As long as leaders keep pushing, there’s no reason we shouldn’t support it,” he said.

Tournament director Carby praised the unmatched hospitality and natural beauty of Philippine surfing destinations like Siargao, Baler, and La Union, saying it makes the country an easy choice for WSL events.

“There’s magic in Siargao, there’s magic in Baler, there’s magic in La Union,” Gregorio added, highlighting the charm that continues to attract surfers from around the globe.