Filipino surfers John Mark “Marama” Tokong and Jayuard Alciso delivered a pair of statement victories on home soil, stunning world-class opponents to advance to Round 2 of the World Surf League Championship Tour Philippines Pro at Cloud 9 in Siargao on Sunday.
Tokong thrilled the home crowd by defeating Brazilian World No. 11 Samuel Pupo, while wildcard Alciso pulled off an equally impressive upset against French Olympic gold medalist and World No. 9 Kauli Vaast.
Competing before a packed home crowd, Tokong put up 16.60 points on waves of 8.60 and 8.00 to comfortably outscore Pupo, who managed 11.00 in their opening-round heat.
The Filipino veteran handled the pressure well amid light conditions and six-to-eight-foot waves, making the most of the opportunity to showcase his skills in front of his countrymen.
“It’s crazy and amazing. There was a lot of pressure, but I just told myself to relax, keep things simple and enjoy the waves,” Tokong said.
Hearing his family, friends, and supporters cheer from the shore whenever he emerged from a wave made the victory even more meaningful for the Filipino surfer.
“I’m not doing this just for myself, but also for my family, friends, fans, and especially the Philippines. Representing my country is very important to me,” he added.
Meanwhile, Alciso made his presence felt in Round 1, Heat 8, posting 12.93 points to eliminate Vaast, one of the world’s top-ranked surfers.
The Asian Games bronze medalist secured the victory with a 7.33 on his seventh wave and a 5.60 on his ninth, completing a memorable performance in his first appearance at the prestigious competition.
“I’m so happy to win this heat. This is my first time competing here, and beating an Olympic gold medalist is not easy. I’m really proud of myself,” Alciso said.
Like Tokong, Alciso drew strength from the support of his loved ones and the local crowd, who rallied behind him throughout the heat.
“I’m 100 percent focused because all my friends, my family and my girlfriend were there watching me. Their support helped me stay focused, and I was able to come up with big scores,” he said.
Alciso was also grateful for the warm reception from the Siargao community as he celebrated his breakthrough victory.
“I’m so happy to make it to Round 2. I just want to thank my supporters, my family, friends, my girlfriend, and all the locals here in Siargao. Thank you all for supporting me,” he added.
With both Filipinos advancing, Tokong and Alciso will look to sustain their momentum as the home crowd continues to rally behind the country’s representatives in the historic Championship Tour event.
The Philippines Pro is presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, with the support of Surigao del Norte Gov. Robert Lyndon Barbers, General Luna Mayor Johnson Sajulga, and Vice Mayor Romina Sajulga.
The event is also backed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Department of Tourism, Department of Public Works and Highways, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, and NEA/SIARELCO.
Surfers eliminated in the opening round will receive US$13,000 (approximately P830,000), while the champion will pocket US$80,000 (around P5.1 million).
Fans can watch the competition live on the One Sports YouTube channel and Cignal Play.
