World Surf League gets under way

SIARGAO — The Philippines takes the global surfing spotlight as the inaugural World Surf League (WSL) World Championship Philippines Pro gets underway Saturday at the iconic Cloud 9 in General Luna.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio described the opportunity to host the prestigious competition as a defining moment for Philippine sports, opening the door for the country to showcase its world-class waves and Filipino hospitality to the international surfing community.

“Speechless. I’m really speechless to be here in Siargao, the Philippines, hosting the highest level of surfing in the world, the WSL Championship Tour,” Gregorio said during a press conference at Cafe Loka.

Gregorio said bringing the international competition to Siargao was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, one that comes with the responsibility of delivering a world-class experience for athletes, officials and visitors.

“We really have to showcase the best waves, the best hospitality, the best arrangements,” Gregorio said, stressing the importance of making the event a success both in and out of the water.