The 2025 Baler International Pro, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 4000 and Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS) event, concluded its thrilling competition at the iconic Sabang Beach in the Philippines. Surfers from across Asia battled challenging conditions and each other for valuable points towards qualification for the Longboard Tour and Challenger Series.
Key Takeaways
- Yuji Nishi (JPN) and Shino Matsuda (JPN) showcased exceptional form, reaching the semifinals with strong performances.
- Defending champions Natsumi Taoka (JPN) and Rogelio Jr Esquievel (PHL) aimed to repeat their successes.
- The event saw impressive displays from both established surfers and emerging talents, including young local surfers.
Challenging Conditions and Rising Stars
Day five of the event presented wind-ruffled two-to-three-foot swell, testing the adaptability of competitors. Despite the challenging conditions, Yuji Nishi (JPN) continued his dominant run, earning the highest single wave score of the QS event with a powerful backhand blast. Nishi’s momentum carried him into the semifinals, marking his first appearance at this level in a QS 4000 event.
Similarly, Shino Matsuda (JPN), aiming to return to the Challenger Series, displayed a sharp forehand attack to secure her quarterfinal win. "I was focused for this heat because it’s an important event for me, but I’m also trying to enjoy it here because waves are really fun and people are so nice," Matsuda shared. "I haven’t been getting good results recently so I really want to get a good result here, but I also want to enjoy my surfing."
All-Japanese and All-Filipino Finals
The women’s LQS Semifinals set up an all-Japanese final, with Natsumi Taoka (JPN) and Sakura Inoue (JPN) advancing. For Sakura Inoue, this marks her first LQS Final appearance, following in the footsteps of her professional surfer siblings.
In the men’s LQS, an all-Filipino semifinal saw brothers Rogelio Jr and June Esquivel (PHL) face off, with Rogelio Jr ultimately dominating. Edgar Calvo Jr. (PHL) also secured a spot in the semifinals after a close heat, showcasing his passion and unique "Taybo style."
Notable Performances Throughout the Event
Throughout the competition, several surfers stood out. Defending women’s QS winner Minami Nonaka (JPN) started strong, posting high scores and aiming to maintain her position on the Asia QS rankings. Kei Kobayashi (JPN), leading the Bonsoy Asia Super Series, continued his consistent form, reaching the quarterfinals with an impressive air reverse. Young local talent Cathleya Isidra (PHL) also made an impact, advancing to the Round of 16 in the women’s QS.
The 2025 Baler International Pro, held from November 17-23, highlighted the growing talent pool in Asian surfing and provided a thrilling spectacle for fans at the renowned Sabang Beach.
Sources
- Highlights and Breakthroughs Mark Day 5 of 2025 Baler International Pro, World Surf League.
- Finals Day Decided as Top Seeds Hit the Water on Day 4 of 2025 Baler International Pro, World Surf League.
- Big Performances Bring Excellence on Day 3 of 2025 Baler International Pro, World Surf League.
- Competition Underway With LQS and QS Action on Day 2 of 2025 Baler International Pro, World Surf League.
- Asia’s Best Surfers Return to Sabang Beach for Baler International Pro, World Surf League.
