SAN JUAN, La Union San Juan, La Union Filipino surfer John Mark “Marama” Tokong won the 2024 World Surf League La Union International Pro Men’s QS 3000 in shortboard on Thursday.

Tokong beat Sweden’s Kian Martin by 17.90-13.25 A margin that was 4.65 points.

“He’s an experienced competitor and he soared just at the right moment,” contest director Luke Landrigan said of Tokong who, he claimed, displayed the “best show” at the end of competition.

The Siargao-based surfing star showed confidence and passion while surfing the big waves of Monaliza Point in Urbiztondo beach.

“I am in love with it. Dito sa Monaliza Point, sobrang ganda talaga ng alon dito so I will never gonna stop coming back here,” Tokong told reporters after his victorious run. “As an athlete, whatever waves we encounter – bad waves, good waves, bad waves we must learn to get used to the waves.”

Around 105 surfers from all over the world which included those from 41 Filipinos of La Union, Siargao, Baler and Zambales were present for a showdown at the northwestern Philippines”surf capital of the world..