WSL Philippines 2024–2025: Highlights From Baler & Siargao + The Rise of Filipino Surfing
The Philippines continues to climb the global surf ladder — with world-class reef breaks, powerful beach waves, and a rapidly rising roster of Filipino athletes. In the past year, two major World Surf League events put the country back into the international spotlight: the Baler International Pro QS4000 + LQS1000 (November 17–23, 2025) and the 29th Siargao International Surfing Cup QS6000 (October 24–31, 2024).
These events weren’t just about competition; they revealed the momentum of Philippine surfing, the growth of our athletes, and the undeniable beauty of our waves.
🌺 29th Siargao International Surfing Cup QS6000: A New Benchmark at Cloud 9
The 29th Siargao International Surfing Cup QS6000 (October 24–31, 2024) delivered iconic Cloud 9 conditions — heavy, hollow, and unforgiving. The world’s best surfers descended onto Siargao, and the level of surfing was the highest the break has seen in years.
🏆 Event Champions
● Ziggy Aloha (Women’s Champion)
● Bronson Meydi (Men’s Champion)
Both surfers delivered world-class barrel riding and tactical mastery, earning well-deserved wins at one of the most technical right-hand waves in the world.
🇵🇭 Team Philippines: Tough Brackets, Valuable Experience
Unlike previous years, Filipino surfers faced extremely challenging matchups early in the event.
● John Mark “Marama” Tokong, Cloud 9’s local hero and long-time standout, didn’t progress as far as he typically does — a reminder of how quickly the global field is elevating.
● Other Filipino surfers also met top seeds early on, resulting in shorter runs than expected.
While the results were tough, the sentiment across the island was optimistic, proud, and forward-looking.
Competing against a stronger international roster gives Filipino athletes the exposure, experience, and competitive pressure needed to grow. And with more structures supporting youth development in Siargao, the next generation is already gearing up for future QS events.
🌊 Baler International Pro 2025: Philippine Longboarding Shines
Held on the historic surf shores of Sabang Beach, Aurora, the WSL Baler International Pro QS4000 + LQS1000 brought international athletes together — but the longboard division truly spotlighted the strength of Team Philippines.
🇵🇭 Longboard Standouts & Breakthrough Performances
The LQS1000 longboard division became a proud moment for Filipino athletes:
● Jay-R Esquival — current World Longboard Tour competitor — won the entire division, displaying flawless nose riding, clean lines, and undeniable competitive composure.
● Edgar “Taybo” Calvo Jr., a young Samar native, charged through the early rounds and reached the semifinals, showing he’s a future star in Philippine longboarding.
● Kaila Jane Dela Torre, Ashlee Lopez, and Mara Lopez put on inspired performances, representing the growing depth and talent of the next generation of Filipino women longboarders.
The Baler event proved that Philippine longboarding is not just strong — it’s evolving, youthful, and ready for the world stage.
🇵🇭 The Rise of Philippine Surfing — Why the Future Is Bright
Across both the Baler and Siargao WSL events, one message was clear:
The Philippines has the waves, the athletes, and the spirit to rise in the global surfing world.
✔ World-Class Waves, Year-Round
● Cloud 9’s barrel power
● Baler’s historic beach break
● Samar, La Union, and Bicol’s consistent swells
These breaks shape surfers who are fearless, technical, and instinctive.
✔ A Growing Pool of Competitive Talent
From veterans like Marama Tokong and Jay-R Esquival to rising names like Taybo Calvo and Kaila Dela Torre, the country’s athlete pipeline is deeper than ever.
✔ Stronger Surf Culture & Community Support
Local surf clubs, NGOs, coaches, and surf brands — including Kudo Surf / KSBoardriders — are nurturing youth talent and expanding access to proper training and equipment.
✔ Increased Global Recognition
Hosting QS and LQS events brings global talent to the Philippines and provides Filipino surfers with ranking points and exposure needed for the Challenger Series.
The momentum is here — and it’s only accelerating.
🛒 Surf the Momentum — Shop Official KSBoardriders Gear
Whether you’re surfing Baler, charging Cloud 9, or exploring your home break, KSBoardriders.com has gear trusted by local surfers and travelers alike:
● 🌊 Performance boardshorts built for tropical surf
● 🏄♀️ Rashguards and surf suits tested in Philippine conditions
● 🧢 Hats, towels & lifestyle gear seen across the WSL events
● 🏄♂️ Marama x KS Signature Collection inspired by Siargao’s finest
Designed by surfers, for surfers. Made for Philippine waves.
The Philippines Is Ready for the Next Wave
With rising talent, world-class waves, and a stronger competitive presence than ever, the Philippines is firmly on the map as one of Asia’s surf powerhouses. From the iconic barrels of Siargao to the historic shores of Baler, the future of Filipino surfing is bright — and the world is watching.
Stay tuned for more surf stories, athlete features, and new gear drops at KSBoardriders.com.
