La Union to host 2026 WSL Longboard Tour qualifier in January

The Philippines has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations for international sporting events in recent years, and the country is set to host another major competition later this month.

La Union, a coastal province in the Ilocos Region on the island of Luzon, will stage the qualifying event for the 2026 World Surf League (WSL) Longboard Tour. Known as a surfers’ paradise, the province has become one of the country’s premier hubs for the sport.

The La Union International Pro is scheduled from January 20 to 24 at Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan and will serve as a direct pathway to the main WSL Longboard Tour.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

“This new format is about creating more access and opportunities to longboarders from all WSL regions. We know there are incredible longboarders in every corner of the world who deserve the chance to compete on the biggest stage,” WSL Longboard Tour Director Will Hayden-Smith said.

The best longboarders in the world converge in the Surfing Capital of the North for the La Union International Pro to be staged this January at the Urbiztondo Beach https://t.co/QQ5m8YKwgf

— Rappler (@rapplerdotcom) January 5, 2026

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio welcomed the hosting of the event, noting its significance not only for Filipino surfers but also for the country’s growing reputation as a sports tourism hub.

“It will be a real thrill to host an exciting event. The event will bring together the world’s best longboarders, men and women alike, to compete on the flawless waves of Monalisa Point in San Juan,” Gregorio said.

“Our Filipino surfing athletes will surely be preparing to show off world-class skill and homegrown heart on home waters. We are excited to deepen our partnership with WSL as the Philippines continues to grow its presence on the global surfing map,” he added.

The competition is open to all WSL Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS) surfers worldwide, with four coveted spots up for grabs for the 2026 World Surf League Longboard Tour.

“The event gives Filipino surfers that shot. La Union is a town with such strong connection to longboarding and a perfect wave for competition, so we look forward to this event at this location,” Gregorio concluded.

With the La Union International Pro set to draw elite longboarders from around the world, the event further underscores the Philippines’ growing stature on the global sports calendar. Beyond the competition, it also highlights La Union’s rise as a premier surfing destination, offering local athletes a rare chance to compete against the world’s best while showcasing the country’s waves, talent, and commitment to sports tourism on an international stage.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate sports fans.