The Philippines opens the year by welcoming the global surfing community as it hosts the La Union International Pro, a World Surf League (WSL) Longboard International Qualifying event set from January 20 to 24 off Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan, La Union.

The competition is expected to attract one of the biggest international fields in WSL longboard history, with four direct slots to the 2026 WSL Longboard World Tour at stake.

The event is open to all WSL Longboard Qualifying Series surfers worldwide, with seeding based on the Challenger Series.

“This new format is about creating more access and opportunities to longboarders from all WSL regions,” said WSL Longboard Tour director Will Hayden-Smith.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio called the event a “real thrill,” citing La Union’s world-class waves and strong surf culture.

He added that Filipino surfers will have a rare opportunity to compete against the world’s best on home waters as the country continues to strengthen its presence on the global surfing stage.