Filipino surfers achieve historic victories at WSL Philippines Pro

Filipino wildcard surfers John Mark “Marama” Tokong and Jayuard Alciso secured historic wins during the World Surf League (WSL) Philippines Pro at Cloud 9 in Siargao. The event marks the first time the Philippines has hosted a WSL Championship Tour competition.

Tokong, a four-time Siargao International Surfing Cup champion, defeated Brazil’s Samuel Pupo with a score of 16.60 to 11.00. This victory marked the first time a Filipino surfer won a heat at the Championship Tour level. Although Tokong later exited the competition due to changing wind and wave conditions, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete against elite athletes.

Jayuard Alciso also delivered a major upset by eliminating Kauli Vaast of France, the reigning Olympic gold medalist from the Paris 2024 Games. The performances by the local surfers drew significant support from the home crowd during the tournament.