La Union is set to boost Philippine sports tourism by hosting a qualifying event for the 2026 World Surf League Longboard Tour. The La Union International Pro will take place from January 20 to 24 at Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan, drawing top longboarders from around the world.
La Union, known as the Surfing Capital of the North, will host the La Union International Pro, a qualifying event for the 2026 World Surf League Longboard Tour. This marks the fourth consecutive year the province stages the competition at Urbiztondo Beach, celebrated for its rich surfing culture and stunning scenery at Monalisa Point.
Four direct entries to the WSL Longboard Tour are at stake, open to all global WSL Longboard Qualifying Series surfers with seeding based on the Challenger Series. In 2025, local hero Rogelio Esquievel Jr., currently ranked No. 8 worldwide, secured victory for the third straight year, defeating Perry Ventura in an all-Filipino final.
"It will be a real thrill to host an exciting new event," said Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, who also leads the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee. He added, "Our Filipino surfing athletes will surely be preparing to show off world-class skill and homegrown heart on home waters." Gregorio anticipates deepening the partnership with WSL as the Philippines expands its footprint on the global surfing scene.
"The event gives Filipino surfers that shot," Gregorio noted. "La Union is a town with such a strong connection to longboarding and a perfect wave for competition." This event promises to enhance sports tourism and provide vital opportunities for local athletes.