The Philippines is set to be a major hub for professional surfing in late 2025, with the World Surf League (WSL) hosting two significant events: the Baler International Pro and the Siargao International Surfing Cup. These competitions will draw top talent from across Asia, offering crucial points for qualification and showcasing the nation’s world-class surf breaks.
Baler International Pro: A Dual Threat on Sabang Beach
The second edition of the Baler International Pro will take place at the iconic Sabang Beach from November 17-23, 2025. This event features both a WSL Qualifying Series (QS) 4000 for shortboarders and a Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS), attracting over 100 elite surfers from Asia.
- Key Takeaways:
- Sabang Beach, known as the birthplace of surfing in the Philippines, will host both shortboard and longboard competitions.
- The event offers valuable points for qualification for the Longboard Tour and the Challenger Series.
- Defending LQS champions Rogelio Jr Esquievel (PHL) and Natsumi Taoka (JPN) aim for back-to-back wins.
- Local talent, including 13-year-old Cathleya Casals and Philmar Alipayo, will compete in the QS 4000.
WSL APAC Tour Director Ty Sorati expressed excitement about returning to Baler after a successful inaugural event, highlighting the quality of waves at Sabang Beach. The Philippine Sports Commission reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing talent and promoting the country’s coastal heritage.
Competition is already underway, with early rounds seeing impressive performances. Day two saw the completion of the men’s LQS Round of 32, women’s LQS Round of 16, and men’s QS Round of 64. Notable performances included the mother-daughter duo Daisy and Kaila Jane Dela Torre, and the Inoue sisters in the LQS. In the QS, Ryuichi Inoue (JPN) posted the highest heat total, while several Filipino surfers, including Eduardo Alciso, advanced.
Siargao International Surfing Cup: The Jewel of Cloud 9
Following the Baler event, the WSL will host the Siargao International Surfing Cup, a prestigious QS 6000 event, at the legendary Cloud 9 from October 24-31, 2025. This event is a critical stop on the inaugural Bonsoy Asia Super Series, which will crown the top male and female surfers in Asia at the end of the season.
- Key Takeaways:
- The event is a QS 6000, offering significant ranking points.
- It’s the penultimate event of the Bonsoy Asia Super Series.
- Cloud 9’s iconic right-hand reef break is renowned for its challenging barrels.
- The event aims to boost sports tourism in the Philippines.
WSL APAC President Andrew Stark emphasized the historical significance of Cloud 9 and its importance on the QS calendar. The event is supported by the Philippines Sports Commission, aiming to unlock the country’s potential for sports tourism.
Sources
- Asia’s Best Surfers Return to Sabang Beach for Baler International Pro, World Surf League.
- Competition Underway With LQS and QS Action on Day 2 of 2025 Baler International Pro, World Surf League.
- Siargao International Surfing Cup World Surf League QS 6000 Set to Return in 2025, World Surf League.
- Siargao International Surfing Cup 2025, World Surf League.
