World Women’s Surfing Cup opens in Siargao Island

Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte province hogged the global surfing spotlight anew as the World Surf League (WSL) qualifying series for women opened recently at the famous “Cloud 9” in General Luna town. 

The best women surfers in the world are expected to compete at the 9th Women’s International Surfing Cup, with prizes amounting to US$ 10,000.

In a statement, General Luna Mayor Jaime Rusillon, said women surfers from Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, France, Australia, Brazil, Taiwan and the Philippines are joining the event.

The event is supported by Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol Matugas, Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco “Bingo” Matugas II, and Department of Tourism-Region 13 acting regional director Mary Jean Camarin.

DOT Assistant Secretary for Office of Public Affairs, Communication and Special Projects Frederick M. Alegre and DOT Legislative Liaison Unit Officer Director Shalimar H. Tamano Ill graced the opening ceremony, Rusillon said.

He said the women surfers from the country will be led by 24-year-old Nilbie Blancada, a native of Siargao Island.

Blancada topped the 2016 Asian Surfing Champion in Taitung, Taiwan last year. She also emerged victorious over other surfers from Australia, Argentina, Indonesia, Taiwan and Japan during the four-day Quicksilver Padma Challenge in Indonesia last year.

“I am optimistic Blancada will also capture the first WSL here,” Rusillon said.

The mayor said they expect the local economy to gain from the event.

The influx of local and foreign tourists started last month, but more are expected to arrive to watch the surfing event, he said. PNA