I welcome all of our guests and participants to the 27th Siargao International Surfing Cup.

I also congratulate the organizers on the holding of this week-long tournament.

The Siargao International Surfing Cup brings together professional surfers from around the world as part of the World Surf League’s Qualifying Series.

Apart from showcasing the exceptional talents and skills of surfers, this Cup aims to fortify the position of Siargao Island as a prime surfing destination on the global map.

This event also serves as a platform for locals and tourists alike to celebrate the culture and values of surfing, in addition to facilitating cultural exchanges and nurturing respect and solidarity amidst differences.

It likewise helps in boosting local tourism and providing our citizens with gainful opportunities as well as green and sustainable livelihoods.

Let me further emphasize that this competition also reinforces the indomitable spirit of the people of Siargao.

Considering the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and Super Typhoon Odette on the Island, I am truly moved by your efforts to bounce back and move forward through your festivities.

As we embark on this new chapter, I enjoin everyone to promote surfing and adopt eco-friendly practices that will help us protect and conserve our environment.

It also remains vital to support responsible fishing practices, purchase sustainably-sourced seafood, and opt for eco-friendly cleaning and personal care products.

Moreover, I call on our tourists and locals alike for your support in government initiatives for the development of Siargao.

Among these programs is the Training on Homestay Pilipinas, which enlightens residential owners about the formal and systematic procedures to accommodate tourists.

Rest assured that the government continues to pursue developmental efforts such as the New Siargao Airport Development Project to support tourism and trade growth of the island.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has also initiated a program for Odette-hit towns to strengthen their adaptive capacities and resilience to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.

I look forward to the continued growth and prosperity of this annual competition as well as the perpetuation of your rich legacy in the global surfing community.

Our government remains staunch in its commitment to supporting Siargao Island in your efforts to achieve economic recovery and sustainable development.

Let us, therefore, unite as one to bring forth a greener, more secure, and more progressive Philippines for all.

Once again, my warmest congratulations to all our organizers, guests, and participants. May you gain meaningful experiences in this year’s International Surfing Cup!

Maraming salamat po at mabuhay po kayong lahat!

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