The Philippines will host a World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour event for the first time, with the inaugural Philippines Pro set to take place in the country’s surfing capital Siargao.
Presented by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the tournament will gather the world’s top male and female professional surfers for Stop No. 11 of the 2026 and 2027 WSL Championship Tour seasons.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), which is supporting the event, said the tournament reflects the government’s push to strengthen sports tourism and position the country as a destination for major international competitions.
Speaking on behalf of Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay during a media briefing on Tuesday, July 14, Assistant Secretary Gissela Marie Romualdez-Quisumbing said the agency sees the event as an opportunity to showcase the Philippines to a global audience.
“As we prepare to host the first-ever World Surf League Championship Tour, the DOT reaffirms its commitment to supporting international sporting events that highlight the Philippines and strengthen our standing as a world-class tourism destination,” Angara-Mathay said through Romualdez-Quisumbing.
“We hope that those who come for the waves will stay to explore our communities, connect with people, and discover more to love. And we are highly encouraging our team to really push for marketing-level promotion through our own social media.”
Romualdez-Quisumbing added that the tournament is expected to generate economic opportunities for local communities beyond visitor arrivals.
“Hosting international events like this goes beyond the tourist arrivals itself. The economic impact also boosts demand for restaurants, accommodations, and local tourism sites,” she said.
PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio said staging the event could also help develop surfing in the country.
“Kaya po ng Pilipino na manalo sa surfing, and when we talk about the sport and destination, tulong-tulong po talaga. I think it’s a great strategy to develop sports tourism in the Philippines,” he said.
The president’s son and sports ambassador William Vincent Marcos likewise welcomed the event, saying it would benefit both Philippine tourism and sports.
“Through flexing our beaches and talent, we can also benefit our country, not only through tourists but also by bringing a higher level of sport to our country,” he said.
Filipino surfer John Mark “Marama” Tokong, who earned the event’s wildcard slot, said competing at Cloud 9 carries special significance.
“Hearing that I will be competing at Cloud 9 is really special. It’s amazing, and it’s all happening in my hometown,” he said.
The event will be held at Cloud 9 in Siargao, Surigao del Norte, from October 31 to November 10, 2026.