After three years of hiatus, Asia’s oldest and Philippines’ biggest traditional boat sailing event, the 50th Iloilo-Guimaras Paraw Regatta Festival is finally back on Iloilo Strait and shores of Villa Beach, Arevalo, Iloilo City which will cap on March 19.
Organizer Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) and JCI Iloilo anchored the return to this year’s theme, “Sailing Through the Waves of Ilonggo Tradition and Progress” as spectators are encouraged to witness the event.
Read also: 50th Iloilo Paraw Regatta 2023
Some 40 paraws, native double outrigger boats with colorful sails, have seen action during the short-course Slalom race on March 16, a sneak preview of the highlights on Sunday.
The non-motorized wind-driven sailboat showcases the seafaring skills of crews in maneuvering the over 30-kilometer high seas.
Preemptive measures have been considered to ensure the safety of participants, such as adjusting race markers for sailors and making them closer to the shoreline, which would give the audience a better view.
Read also: Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival: A Celebration of the Ilonggo Craftsmanship
With assistance from Philippine Coast Guard, the public is advised to refrain from swimming in the venue.
Environmental advocate group Greenpeace Iloilo also reminds everyone to be responsible for their trash while enjoying the rest of the celebration.
With high anticipation from tourists and participants, IFFI Event Chairperson John Lex Bayombong expressed gratitude to organizers and supporters who contributed their resources and efforts for the success of the festivities.
Another event to watch is the Sinamba sa Regatta, a Mardi Gras-like dance contest on March 18 at Downtown Area and Freedom Grandstand as performance and stage venues.
Public Safety and Transportation Management Office (PSTMO) has advised motorists and riding public of road re-routing and closure starting at 3 pm from Bonifacio Drive to Freedom Grandstand which is expected to last for two hours.
Other activities by the beach are the much-anticipated Lechon Contest, Paraw Photo Contest and Exhibit, Pinta Layag, Pinta Tawo, Beach Volleyball, and Lighted Paraw Competition. (Angelo Miranda/Iloilo City PIO)
