The upcoming days will see Sabang Beach in the Philippines play host to the second edition of the Baler International Pro. The event will feature both a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 4000 and a Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS), attracting over 100 of the best surfers in the two divisions from throughout Asia.
“The WSL is excited to return to Baler after a successful inaugural event in 2024,” said WSL APAC Tour Director Ty Sorati. “The waves of Sabang Beach will offer a great opportunity for all of the competitors as they chase valuable points towards qualification for the Longboard Tour and the Challenger Series. We’re so thankful to the Philippine Sports Commission for the support to bring this event back to Baler.”
Sabang Beach, known as the birthplace of surfing in the Philippines, features an array of high-performance beach-break peaks that will provide an ideal canvas for both longboarders and shortboarders.
“Baler promises untamed beauty, raw potential, and signature Filipino hospitality. I’m sure for our competitors, the waves of Aurora Province will be a beautiful discovery and a compelling test of skill,” said Patrick C. Gregorio, Chairman, Philippine Sports Commission. “We reaffirm our commitment to nurturing world-class talent and to showcasing the iconic coastal heritage that makes our country a premier destination for international competition.”
Defending LQS winners Natsumi Taoka (JPN) and Rogelio Jr Esquievel (PHL) will be looking to go back-to-back. The current World No. 8, Esquievel, remains undefeated in LQS competition, with four of his five wins coming at home in the Philippines
Bonsoy Asia Super Series leaders Kei Kobayashi (JPN) and Kana Nakashio (JPN) will also be present, aiming to protect their lead and claim the inaugural title of the prestigious series. Meanwhile, defending QS winner Minami Nonaka (JPN) will look to gain ground on the Asia QS rankings. Already competing on the Challenger Series this season, Nonaka currently sits within next year’s regional qualification line, but she is closely trailed by fellow Challenger athletes Mirai Ikeda (JPN) and Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN), who will also compete in Baler and are eager to overtake her.
Cathleya Casals (PHL) and Philmar Alipayo (PHL) lead a strong local contingent in the QS 4000. Casals’ grandmother was one of the founding surfers in the region and the 13-year-old now carries her legacy. The highest placing Filipino in the inaugural event, Alipayo, will seek to improve upon his Quarterfinal finish in 2024.
The 2025 Baler International Pro will run at Sabang Beach from November 17 – 23, 2025.