By MARK REY MONTEJO
The stage is set for the staging of 2025 Siargao International 6000 Cup where top local and foreign surfers from the Asia Pacific would dance with the world-famous waves of charming Siargao.
Actually they would all try to conquer the powerful and barreling waves of the island’s Cloud 9 with the grace of a ballroom dancer.
Kicking off under the World Surf League qualifying series, the first-ever 6000 level competition – which also offers hefty prize money – in the country brings more than the thrill and delight to the spectator as 192 elite surfers are vying for glory.
Precious points are also up for grabs in their desire to earn a spot in the prestigious Championship Tour.
There are 128 male and 64 female surfers from the Asian continent as well from Australia and New Zealand, while seasoned wave breaker Jay-R Esquivel is anticipated to lead the Philippine charge in the week-long meet.
For United Philippine Surfing Association president Dr. Raul Canlas, staging Siargao Cup could boost the youngsters into sport by showing and letting them feel what is like to compete in an international tournament.
“They see what they can aspire for… and when they see international competition, ‘Ay ganto pala’,” said Canlas during a special session of Tuesday’s PSA Forum in Wild Flour restaurant in Makati City. “Exposure to this helps them a lot and surely inspires them to do better in surfing,” he added.
“Malaking bagay talaga ito na mayroon tayong pagkakataon na mag-host ng gantong mga event, mas lalong nae-expose tayo and hopefully makasabay sa mga foreign competitors,” added Esquivel, who is current world No. 3 and longboard titlist.
This would be a perfect joust to keep the momentum going for the country’s surfing community after its successful staging of WSL World Junior Championships on Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan, La Union last January.
Earlier this year, the WSL staged the World Junior Championships in La Union, and this time, an even bigger event aimed at further promoting sports tourism in the country is set to take place.
Aside from Canlas and Esquivel, Philippines Sports Commission Chairman Pato Gregorio and presidential son Vinny Marcos also offered their support, noting the importance of it, especially in tourism.
“It could be a big boost for locals, because it’s not just for the athletes but it’s also for the local communities,” said Vinny. “I love all sports but surfing has a very special place in my heart.”
“This hosting is part of the sports tourism program that we’re pursuing and we believe that sports tourism is an economic driver. Why surfing? Because it’s a beautiful sport,” said Gregorio.
“And with 7,100 islands, how can we go wrong? As long as we see the leaders really pushing, I think there’s no reason why we shouldn’t support it,” Gregorio added.
Also in the event were WSL PH technical director John Carby with Isabela 5th District and House Committee on Youth and Sports chairman Rep. Mike Dy, and Aurora, Quezon Lone District Rep. Rommel Angara.
“This would be big for the Philippines, this tournament is top-level event, it’s world class,” said Carby in the forum presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and the country’s 24/7 sports app Arena Plus.
