Documentary Short Film

Surfing Siargao Pt. 1

Documentary Short Film

Surfing Siargao Pt. 1

About

The Next Generation of Filipino Surf is the first film in the two-part series Surfing Siargao, which I conceived, directed, filmed, and edited.

It follows a group of local kids from Purok 3, Siargao—the same neighborhood where pro surfer Marama Tokong was born and raised. Marama, the first Filipino to compete in the World Surf League Challenger Series, now trains the kids alongside his brother Jeff and Jeff’s wife Tamara.

Together, they’ve built a grassroots surf camp that gives these young surfers the tools, discipline, and belief to pursue a professional path—even with limited resources.

It’s a story of resilience, mentorship, and how surfing can carve out real opportunities for the next generation.

Format

Documentary Short Film

Role

Concept Development

Director & Cinematographer

Producer

Editor

Year

2025

Thoughts and Reflections

My focus went beyond surfing itself to explore how the sport serves as a vehicle for opportunity and growth within small communities.

I was passionate about highlighting how surfing teaches valuable life skills—discipline, resilience, and hope—that extend far beyond the waves.

With limited resources, only eight of the twenty groms can compete this year, underscoring the challenges these kids face.

The film shines a light on community uplift and youth empowerment, emphasizing how seeing someone who looks like you and comes from the same place can inspire a pursuit of a better life.

It’s a story about mentorship, determination, and the power of local connection.

My focus went beyond surfing itself to explore how the sport serves as a vehicle for opportunity and growth within small communities.

I was passionate about highlighting how surfing teaches valuable life skills—discipline, resilience, and hope—that extend far beyond the waves.

With limited resources, only eight of the twenty groms can compete this year, underscoring the challenges these kids face.

The film shines a light on community uplift and youth empowerment, emphasizing how seeing someone who looks like you and comes from the same place can inspire a pursuit of a better life.

It’s a story about mentorship, determination, and the power of local connection.

Thoughts and Reflections

My focus went beyond surfing itself to explore how the sport serves as a vehicle for opportunity and growth within small communities.

I was passionate about highlighting how surfing teaches valuable life skills—discipline, resilience, and hope—that extend far beyond the waves.

With limited resources, only eight of the twenty groms can compete this year, underscoring the challenges these kids face.

The film shines a light on community uplift and youth empowerment, emphasizing how seeing someone who looks like you and comes from the same place can inspire a pursuit of a better life.

It’s a story about mentorship, determination, and the power of local connection.