Tokong beats Pupo to reach second round at Siargao surfing event
The Filipino surfer scored 16.60 points against the Brazilian world No. 11 at Cloud 9.
John Mark “Marama” Tokong secured a second-round place at the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour Philippines Pro on November 1, defeating Brazil’s Samuel Pupo at Cloud 9 in Siargao.
Tokong’s two wave scores of 8.60 and 8.00 gave him 16.60 points in the opening heat. Pupo, ranked No. 11 in the world, finished with 11.00. The surfers competed in waves measuring 6 to 8 feet.
Tokong said the home crowd brought pressure, but he focused on relaxing and enjoying the waves once in the water. He could hear relatives, friends and fans cheering from shore and said representing the Philippines mattered greatly to him.
The Philippine Sports Commission is presenting the competition, with backing from national agencies and local officials. Surfers eliminated in the opening round will receive US$13,000, while the winner’s prize is US$80,000.
Coverage of the contest is available through livestreams on Cignal Play and the One Sports YouTube channel.
