The world’s top surfers are set to converge on Siargao as the Philippines hosts a World Surf League Championship Tour event for the first time from October 30 to November 8 at the iconic Cloud 9.
A total of 40 elite surfers, comprising 24 men and 16 women, will compete at the famed reef break, with Filipino standouts Marama Tokong, Jayuard Alciso and Mara Lopez set to test their skills against the international field.
Leading the men’s division is reigning world No. 1 Yago Dora of Brazil, who headlines a formidable contingent that includes former world champions Gabriel Medina and Italo Ferreira.
Dora is expected to draw attention with his combination of aerial maneuvers and precision rail surfing, while Medina and Ferreira bring championship experience and explosive styles to Siargao’s challenging waves.
The Brazilian contingent also features Filipe Toledo and Miguel Pupo, further strengthening the field as the world’s best prepare to tackle Cloud 9’s powerful barrels.
Italy’s Leonardo Fioravanti and Japan’s Olympic medalist Kanoa Igarashi are also among the international contenders, adding technical proficiency and speed to an already stacked men’s lineup.
American standout Tyler Wright completes the featured roster, bringing experience and wave-reading skills to the competition.
The women’s division promises an equally competitive showcase, led by Australia’s Molly Picklum, who is known for her aggressive approach in demanding surf conditions.
American Caroline Marks, rising star Erin Brooks, Hawaiian standout Gabriela Bryan and veteran Lakey Peterson are also expected to figure prominently in the contest.
The championship tour stop, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission marks a significant milestone for Philippine surfing as the country welcomes one of the sport’s premier international competitions.
“This will be a historic moment for Philippine surfing and the CT will usher the sport into a new era. Let it inspire a new generation of athletes. Let the world discover not just our waves, but the vision, ambition, and heart of the Filipino people,” said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio.
The hosting initiative was made possible through the collaboration of the PSC, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, the Department of Tourism, Department of Public Works and Highways, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, and National Electrification Administration, in partnership with Siargao Electric Cooperative.
Local officials, including Surigao del Norte Governor Lyndon Barbers, General Luna Mayor Johnson Sajulga and Vice Mayor Doc Minmin Sajulga, also played key roles in preparations for the international event.
Other agencies and partners supporting the competition include the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Budget and Management, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Department of Transportation, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Airlines, TCP and SDMI.
With the world’s leading surfers set to compete alongside three Filipino representatives, the event offers the Philippines an opportunity to showcase Siargao’s renowned waves and strengthen the country’s presence on the international surfing stage.
