SAN JUAN, La Union (PIA) – The World Surf League (WSL) – La Union International Pro has recently kicked off in the “Surfing Capital of the North” for the second time in a row. 

It was in 2023 when Urbiztondo Beach first showcased its incredible waves and beautiful coastline to the world.

Said international surfing competition is spearheaded by the United Philippines Surfing Association as authorized by the WSL, in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), provincial government of La Union, local government of San Juan, and La Union Surf Club.

DOT Region 1 Director Joseph Francisco Ortega said La Union was the top choice for this global event given its accessible location, breaking waves, and well-trained and accredited surfing schools and trainers.

“La Union has good waves even for beginner surfers; it has numerous DOT-accredited surfing schools; and a home of surfers trained on water safety and basic life support,” Ortega said.

The competition officially started on Jan. 22 and is set to conclude on Jan. 28.

Some 121 surfers from around the globe, including Australia, Japan, Indonesia, South Korea, Russia, France, Italy, United States of America, and the Philippines, compete in this year’s men’s and women’s longboard and shortboard categories.

Delegates of the Philippines are compromised of 28 surfers from the host province, seven from Siargao, four from Baler, and two from Zambales.

Tye Fidel Conghan, head judge for the contest, said contenders are scored basically on the waves and turns executed. 

“We can simply put it as big sections, big turns, and big scores,” said Conghan.

Meanwhile, organizers are also eyeing to bring the global surfing competition either in Ilocos Norte or Ilocos Sur next year.(JCR/MJTAB/CGC, PIA Region 1)