QS 5000 surfing tourney slated in Siargao this year

GENERAL LUNA, Siargao – The Philippines is set to host this year the largest international surfing competition in the nation's history, following the resounding success of the 27th Siargao International Surfing Tournament in October last year.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Jose Francisco Matugas, a pivotal figure in the event’s success, disclosed that the Philippines will be just the third country to host the prestigious World Surf League’s Qualifying Series 5000, following the footsteps of Taiwan and Indonesia.

The 27th Siargao International Surfing Tournament, which unfolded from October 25 to November 1, 2023, concluded with resounding success, establishing itself as a paramount event in the global surfing domain.

Sanctioned by the esteemed World Surf League (WSL) and recognized as part of the WSL Qualifying Series 3000, the tournament showcased an exhilarating demonstration of skill and sportsmanship against the backdrop of Siargao's world-renowned waves.

This remarkable event was made possible through a collaborative effort spearheaded by Matugas’ office, co-presented by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and supported by various public and private entities, including the LGU of General Luna led by Mayor Sol Matugas, the Department of Tourism under Sec. Christina Frasco, Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, Tingog Party-list, and Next Gen.

Major sponsors such as Smart, PLDT, PayMaya, EarnWorld, Streakk, PAGGS, Coca-Cola, alongside numerous local businesses, played an instrumental role in transforming the tournament from vision to reality.

Acknowledging the cooperation among national government agencies, law enforcement bodies and health institutions, Rep. Matugas emphasized their pivotal role in ensuring the safety and welfare of all participants and attendees throughout the event.

The pinnacle of the tournament showcased electrifying competition in the Men's and Women's Shortboard Divisions, witnessing fierce battles for the coveted 3000 Qualifying points.

The results are as follows: 

Men's Division: Champion: John Mark “Marama” Tokong (Siargao, Philippines); 2nd Place: Koh Azuchi (Japan); 3rd Place: Ketut Agus (Indonesia), Shohei Kato (Japan); Women's Division results: Champion: Anon Matsuoka (Japan); 2nd Place: Sky Brown (Great Britain); 3rd Place: Nilbie Blancada (Siargao, Philippines), Kana Nakashio (Japan).

Special recognition was also extended to the locals for their steadfast commitment to preserving the paradise that is Siargao, contributing significantly to the event's overall success.

Finally, the tireless efforts of the organizing and working teams were acknowledged, their dedication and hard work instrumental in crafting the 27th Siargao International Surfing Cup into a memorable experience for all. Siargao's evolution as a surfing haven and tourist magnet stands as a testament to their collective pursuit of excellence.

As the curtains formally closed on this successful edition last November 1, 2023, Rep. Matugas, in partnership with World Surf League officials, announced the forthcoming staging of the 28th Siargao International Surfing Cup, elevating it to QS 5000. The promise of an even more spectacular showcase of surfing prowess and the unique Siargao spirit awaits.