By Kathlene Joyce Ramones
A surfboard is usually seen riding the waves, but during the La Union Surfing Break (LUSB) 2026, more than 20 artists gave these boards another purpose: telling stories about the sea through their paintings.
On October 31, artists from across La Union gathered in Bacnotan town for a surfboard painting competition, using their creativity to portray marine life, Filipino patterns, local landmarks, and scenes inspired by the province’s coastal environment.
Each entry offered a different interpretation of the sea, reflecting the artists’ appreciation of the coast and the marine life that depends on it.
For Johnlou Fernando of San Fernando City, the competition was a chance to use art to advocate for protecting ocean creatures.
“It was more than an outlet [for] showcasing our skills and talents in the arts but a way to express our love for ocean creatures and raise awareness for their protection,” Fernando said.
The Municipal Government of Bacnotan organized the competition with the Provincial Government of La Union to promote local creativity, sustainable tourism, and appreciation of the town’s coastal resources.
Mayor Divina Fontanilla said the activity provided artists with a platform to showcase their talents during the annual surfing celebration.
“The surfboard painting competition has added a new creative layer to our Surfing Break festivities,” she said.
Judges evaluated entries based on composition, visual impact, relevance to the theme, technique, and creativity.
In the adult category, Marc John Garnace won the championship, followed by Jeo Morados and Jhon Niko Serador as first and second runners-up, respectively.
In the youth category, Jeremy John Collado emerged as champion, while Lord Julian Rudolf Flores IV and Nicole Carig placed first and second runners-up, respectively.
The three youth awardees came from different schools in La Union, reflecting young artists’ participation in the province’s cultural activities.
More than a surfing celebration
The competition was part of the LUSB 2026, an annual festival that promotes surfing while highlighting the province’s coastal attractions, culture, and local industries.
Held on October 24 to 25 and October 29 to 31 in Barangay Quirino, Bacnotan, the five-day celebration also featured surfing competitions, beach volleyball, sandcastle making, performances by local artists, and eco-boot camps for the youth.
Food and craft booths also gave local entrepreneurs and artisans an opportunity to introduce their products to festival-goers.
While surfing remains central to the celebration, activities such as the surfboard painting competition allow other community members, particularly artists and young people, to help promote La Union.
The painted boards offered a different view of the province’s relationship with the sea.
Beyond the waves that draw surfers and tourists to its shores are marine resources, coastal communities, and livelihoods that depend on a healthy ocean.
Through their entries, the artists shared what the sea means to them and why protecting it should remain the community’s responsibility. (CCMT/KJCR, PIA La Union)
