The Philippines is kicking off 2026 with a landmark surfing event as La Union welcomes the first-ever Longboard International Qualifying competition, the La Union International Pro, slated for January 20 to 24 at Urbiztondo Beach. This historic event promises one of the largest international fields in World Surf League (WSL) longboard history, with four direct tickets to the 2026 WSL Longboard Tour up for grabs.
RELATED: [Baler, Aurora – The Birthplace of Pinoy Surfing]
A Global Stage in La Union
“This new format is about creating more access and opportunities to longboarders from all WSL regions,” Will Hayden-Smith, WSL Longboard Tour Director, explained. “We know there are incredible longboarders in every corner of the world who deserve the chance to compete on the biggest stage.”
The competition marks a major milestone in Philippine sports tourism and showcases the country’s growing presence in global surfing.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio expressed his excitement about hosting the event, which forms part of the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee’s initiatives, created under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“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.”
La Union, known for its rich surfing culture and world-class waves, provides the perfect backdrop for this first-of-its-kind competition. Filipino surfers are expected to showcase their homegrown talent and compete alongside the best from around the globe.
Opportunities for Filipino Surfers and Beyond
The field is open to all WSL LQS surfers worldwide, with seeding based on the Challenger Series. Gregorio highlighted the significance for local athletes.
“The event gives Filipino surfers that shot,” he noted. “La Union is a town with such a strong connection to longboarding and a perfect wave for competition, so we look forward to this event at this location.”
Beyond boosting the Philippines’ profile in international surfing, the La Union International Pro supports the country’s sports tourism campaign, encourages local athlete development, and brings global attention to the coastal communities that rely on surfing for livelihood and culture.
RELATED: [Surging Surfer's Paradise: General Luna's Title as the Surfing Hub of the Philippines]
