All set for Siargao Surfing Festival

MANILA, Philippines — The 26th Siargao International Surfing Festival is returning this year – bigger and better.

From Oct. 15 to 21, the surfing paradise will hold a week-long celebration with multiple events initiated by Rep. Bingo Matugas (First District of Surigao del Norte).

The festival aims to help Surigaonons fully recover from the pandemic and Typhoon Odette which devastated the island last December.

The event is being held in partnership with the World Surf League (WSL), United Philippine Surfing Association (UPSA) and General Luna Mayor Sol Matugas. On the side, an arts and culture show plus a film screening about the culture of surfing, pocket gigs in General Luna, a beachside bonfire and an awarding ceremony and concert will take place.

The main highlight will be the Siargao International Surfing Cup, a competition attended by over 100 surfers from around the world.

The event serves as a Qualifying Series (QS 1000) sanctioned by the World Surf League, the governing body for professional surfers.

Since the pandemic started, the WSL, UPSA and participating government bodies have been planning this event to help local surfers qualify to the 2023 World Surf League Challenger Series.

But this year, it’s more than just that. The Siargao International Surfing Festival also serves as a tribute to the people of Surigao who, while facing challenges beyond their control, continue to show strength in spirit and continue to cultivate camaraderie in the community through surfing.

Serving as platinum sponsors are Smart, Seaoil, and Scheirman Construction.