World surfers in Siargao for Billabong Cloud 9

The massive waves off Siargao island in Surigao del Norte take global limelight anew as the best surfers from nine countries compete in the Billabong Cloud 9 Invitational starting today.

At least 40 surfers  are competing for the top prize of $20,000 and the Siargao Surfing Cup, which is presented for the first time by surfing giant Billabong Australia.

Gerry Deagan, event coordinator, said this year’s competition is bigger with “more participants, more talents and more money.”

Most of the participants in the event, which started in 1996, came from Australia. There are four Japanese and five Indonesians. Others came from the US, New Zealand, South Africa, Germany and France.

Organizers said at least 12 local surfers are also giving their best shot at the title. Two of them – Dionisio Espejon and Carlito Nogalo – have been recognized as early title favorites.

 “I was surprised by the level of Filipino surfers – very impressive,” said Indonesian Kopling Wirtama during a press conference in Manila. “But they should go to other places and travel so their competence is not limited to home surf site.”

The event, part of the world qualifying series, is co-presented by Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA), San Miguel Corp., Smart Communications, Coca-Cola Bottlers Phils., Asian Spirit and Montenegro Lines.

PTA general manager Robert Dean Barbers said the event is important in promoting Siargao as one of the best surfing sites in the world. – Edu Punay