Siargao native John Mark Tokong defeated Noah Beschen from Hawaii to win in the 25th Siargao International Surfing Cup held at Cloud 9 on Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte.
Tokong, 23, earlier defeated Indonesian Oney Anwar in the quarter finals before beating Costa Rica’s Tomas King in the semifinals.
“I dedicate this win to my townmates and my family. I just don’t want to disappoint them,” Tokong said.
With the latest win, Tokong’s worldwide ranking increased by 683 ranks to place 251st in the World Surf League Qualifying Series (QS) 1,500 event.
Tokong also said he is grateful for the support of Siargao Representative Bingo Matugas and Governor Francisco “Lalo” Matugas.
Tokong will join the country’s gold-medal bid in the Southeast Asian Games.
