Siargao International 6000 Surfing Cup: Top Surfers to Compete for USD50,000 Prize

MANILA – The world’s best surfers are set to ride the waves of Siargao as the Siargao International 6000 Surfing Cup takes place from October 23 to 31, marking the highest-ranking World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series event ever hosted in the Philippines.

A total of 128 male and 64 female surfers from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond will compete for the USD50,000 (approximately PHP2.8 million) top prize, showcasing world-class talent in one of the country’s most iconic surf destinations.

A Boost for Philippine Sports Tourism

The event was officially announced during a special Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) forum held in Makati City, with key figures from sports and government expressing their excitement.

Presidential son and sports ambassador William Vincent Marcos, an avid surfer himself, emphasized the significance of the competition.

“It’s not just for the athletes but for the local communities as well,” Marcos said. “I love all sports, but surfing has a very special place in my heart.”

He added that the event presents a perfect opportunity to promote sports tourism, further establishing the Philippines as a premier destination for surf enthusiasts.

Government and Sports Leaders Rally Behind Surfing

Also present at the forum were:

• Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairperson Patrick Gregorio

• Isabela 5th District Rep. Mike Dy, House Committee on Youth and Sports chairman

• Aurora Lone District Rep. Rommel Angara

• United Philippine Surfing Association (UPSA) President Dr. Raul Canlas

Gregorio highlighted the economic benefits of sports tourism, stating:

“This hosting is part of the sports tourism program that we are pursuing. We believe that sports tourism is an economic driver. And why surfing? Because it’s a beautiful sport.”

With the country’s 7,100 islands, Gregorio expressed confidence in the Philippines’ potential to become a global surfing hub.

A World-Class Event in a World-Class Destination

John Carby, the tournament’s technical director, praised the country’s surf spots, including Siargao, Baler, and La Union, for their world-class waves and unmatched hospitality.

“This is a top-level event. It’s world-class,” Carby said. “There’s magic in Siargao, there’s magic in Baler, there’s magic in La Union.”

The event follows the success of the WSL World Junior Championships held in San Juan, La Union, last January, further cementing the Philippines’ reputation in the global surfing scene.

Support from Key Partners

The PSA forum was presented by major sponsors and supporters, including:

• San Miguel Corporation

• Philippine Sports Commission

• Philippine Olympic Committee

• MILO

• Smart/PLDT

• Arena Plus (the country’s 24/7 sports app)

With top surfers, government backing, and the natural beauty of Siargao’s waves, the Siargao International 6000 Surfing Cup is poised to be a landmark event for Philippine sports and tourism.

Mark your calendars—October 23-31, 2024—and witness surfing history in the making!

For updates, follow the World Surf League (WSL) and United Philippine Surfing Association (UPSA) official pages.