About SPF Surfcoaching
Who we are
A small Siargao surf school, run with local heart
SPF Surfcoaching is a local surf school based in Catangnan, General Luna — right next door to Cloud 9. We were founded by head coach Allan Derecho, who has spent more than two decades surfing and coaching across the island's breaks. The school grew out of a simple idea: share what we know about these waves with the people who come to ride them.
Allan is an ISA Level 2 judge and ASI Level 1 instructor, so every session is grounded in proven coaching frameworks and clear, friendly feedback. Families trust us with kids as young as four, and we welcome surfers at every level — first-timers finding their feet, travelers looking to progress, and experienced surfers chasing their next clean ride.
- Base
- Catangnan, General Luna, Siargao Island
- Specialties
- Beginners, intermediates, competitors, families, and kids 4+
- Programs
- Surf reviews, surfskate, land coaching, surf-fitness
What we bring
Experience, certifications, and a friendly approach
More than 20 years surfing, coaching, and reading the conditions across Cloud 9 and the surrounding breaks.
Certified with the International Surfing Association — a trained eye for technique and scoring detail.
Accredited by the Academy of Surfing Instructors to deliver safe, progression-focused coaching at every level.
SPF Surfcoaching is a local, family-run school in General Luna — founded by head coach Allan Derecho.
Small ratios, patient pacing, and tailored safety protocols — we coach surfers as young as four.
Custom programs across surf reviews, surfskate, land coaching, and surf-fitness — paced to your goals.
Our approach
Building confident surfers on every wave
We match the ocean's conditions to each surfer's goals. Sessions are paced for steady progression — whether you're standing on a board for the first time, working on rail-to-rail transitions, or sharpening technique for the next swell.
- • Small ratios and patient progressions for kids (4+) and families.
- • Video reviews and surf analysis to make feedback easy to see and apply.
- • Land-based drills — surfskate, strength, and mobility — to speed up learning.
Learn more about our safety approach and guidance for parents on the Safety & Kids page.
Our story
How SPF Surfcoaching came together
Early 2000s
Growing up on Siargao's breaks
Allan started surfing Cloud 9 and the surrounding spots — learning the island's tides, swells, and moods first-hand.
2010s
Certified judge and instructor
Earned ISA Level 2 judging credentials and ASI Level 1 coaching certification — bringing structure and safety to every session.
2022
SPF Surfcoaching opens its doors
A small, locally-rooted surf school built to share Siargao's waves with visitors — from first-timers to confident competitors.
Today
A welcoming home for surfers
We coach beginners, families, and experienced surfers with patient, conditions-led sessions across Cloud 9 and beyond.
Ready to surf
Let's plan your next session in Siargao
Send us your travel dates, surf goals, and experience level. We'll line up the right spot, timing, and program — whether you're a first-timer, a junior building confidence, or an experienced surfer looking for a fresh challenge.