Filipino surfer John Mark “Marama” Tokong has advanced to Round 2 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour Philippines Pro after defeating world No. 11 Samuel Pupo of Brazil at Cloud 9 in Siargao.
Tokong dominated their opening-round matchup, posting a combined score of 16.60 points from his two best waves, with scores of 8.60 and 8.00. Pupo, meanwhile, managed only 11.00 points.
Despite the pressure of competing before a huge home crowd, Tokong said he remained focused on his performance and refused to let the occasion affect his game.
He emphasized that his campaign was bigger than a personal pursuit, dedicating his performance to his family, friends, supporters, and the entire Philippines.
The Philippines Pro is being staged with the support of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), in partnership with the local governments of Surigao del Norte and General Luna.
Surfers eliminated in the opening round will receive 13-thousand dollars, or approximately 830-thousand pesos, while the eventual champion will take home 80-thousand dollars, equivalent to around 5.1 million pesos.
(Photo Courtesy: PSC)
