The Philippines is set to make surfing history as Siargao's iconic Cloud 9 joins the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, bringing the sport's biggest stars—and a major tourism boost—to the country for the first time.
The WSL announced that Cloud 9 will host the Philippines Pro from Oct. 31 to Nov. 10, 2026, becoming an official Championship Tour stop for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
The event marks the first time the Philippines will stage professional surfing's highest-level competition, where world champions compete for the global title.
The promotion also elevates Cloud 9 from a Qualifying Series event to one of the elite tour's official venues, placing Siargao alongside the world's premier surfing destinations.
Home advantage for Tokong
For Siargao's own John Mark Tokong, the announcement fulfills a dream years in the making.
Tokong, a four-time Qualifying Series winner at Cloud 9, said competing against the world's best on his home break is something he never imagined when he started surfing.
His coach, John Carby, believes the hometown favorite could surprise some of the sport's biggest names, saying Tokong's knowledge of Cloud 9 gives him a genuine edge.
Tourism and jobs expected to surge
WSL President Andrew Stark said Cloud 9 was chosen because of its world-class waves, making it the only Philippine surf break suited for the Championship Tour.
The event is expected to attract thousands of international athletes, media personnel, and fans, creating significant opportunities for tourism, local businesses, and employment in Surigao del Norte.
Stark cited the economic impact of a previous Championship Tour stop in New Zealand, where the event generated more visitors than the community's peak holiday season.
To prepare for the influx, the Department of Tourism and local government units are planning infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to transport facilities and other visitor services.
Inspiring future Filipino surfers
Beyond the competition, the WSL will roll out its Rising Tides program, allowing local children to surf with world champions and participate as board caddies.
WSL Asia-Pacific President Andrew Stark said hosting world-class events gives young Filipinos the chance to witness elite competition firsthand and inspires them to pursue the sport.
