Philippines hosts world surfest in La Union

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines welcomes the new year by hosting a Longboard International Qualifying event – the La Union International Pro – set Jan. 20 to 24 off Urbiztondo Beach.

The La Union International Pro is expected to attract one of the biggest international fields of any World Surf League (WSL) longboard event in history with nothing less than a direct pathway to the 2026 WSL Longboard Tour at stake.

“This new format is about creating more access and opportunities to longboarders from all WSL regions,” said Will Hayden-Smith, WSL Longboard tour director. “We know there are incredible longboarders in every corner of the world who deserve the chance to compete on the biggest stage.”

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio described the La Union International Pro a “real thrill” and is excited to see the fruits of the country’s sports tourism campaign which he heads through the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee that President Marcos created.

“It will be a real thrill to host an exciting new event,” Gregorio said. “The event will bring together the world’s best longboarders, men and women alike, to compete on the flawless waves of Monalisa Point in San Juan.”

Four direct tickets to the WSL Longboard World Tour are at stake in La Union, which boasts a rich surf culture and world-class waves for a perfect backdrop to the landmark competition.

“Our Filipino surfing athletes will surely be preparing to show off world-class skill and homegrown heart on home waters,” Gregorio said. “We are excited to deepen our partnership with WSL as the Philippines continues to grow its presence on the global surfing map.”

The field will be open to all WSL LQS surfers globally with a seeding formula based on the Challenger Series.

“The event gives Filipino surfers that shot,” Gregorio said.