GUIMARAS — From June 29 to 30, Taklong Island National Marine Reserve in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, will host the third leg of the International Open Water Swim Circuit: Experience Water Visayas. This event promises not only to draw local and international outdoor sports enthusiasts but also to propel the province into the spotlight as a premier sports destination, all while championing environmental sustainability.
Director Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez of the Department of Tourism 6 (Western Visayas) aptly captured the essence of this unique event during a press conference.
Critical Focus
Rodriguez highlighted that while the event is fundamentally a tourism initiative, it doubles as a platform for the conservation and protection of our marine environment. This dual focus is critical, as the health of our natural surroundings is inextricably linked to the success of tourism.
Western Visayas is blessed with abundant natural resources, yet these must be preserved to maintain and enhance tourism. As Rodriguez wisely noted, "Tourism would be non-existent if there is no functioning and healthy environment."
The swim event underscores this symbiotic relationship, blending the thrill of competition with the urgent need for environmental stewardship.
Partnering with the Zamboanga Open Water Swimming Club, Inc., the first two legs of the swim circuit saw enthusiastic participation in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, and Sicogon Island, Carles, Iloilo. These events gathered swimmers of all ages, some as young as seven, from various parts of the country.
The upcoming Guimaras leg will feature three categories—2.5km, 5km, and 7km—ensuring a challenging yet scenic experience around the island.
Participants will not only come from Region 6 but also from across the Philippines, including Mindanao, Zamboanga, Iligan, Sultan Kudarat, Davao, Cebu, and Manila.
This diverse gathering of athletes is a testament to the event's growing prestige and appeal.
Carefully Planned
The swim will take place in the multiple-use zone of the marine reserve, a thoughtful decision aimed at protecting the fragile marine corals.
This careful planning reflects a broader commitment to environmental conservation, aligning with the event’s advocacy-driven nature.
Unlike many sports competitions, this event offers no cash prizes. Instead, the top three finishers will receive medals, emphasizing the importance of participation and environmental consciousness over monetary rewards.
Provincial Board Member Felipe Hilan Nava, chair of the committee on tourism, history, and culture, sees this event as a natural extension of Guimaras' assets.
While the province has previously hosted successful biking activities, the swim competition showcases Guimaras' potential for diverse sea activities. "We are maximizing the potential of Guimaras," Nava said, highlighting the untapped assets waiting to be utilized.
Nueva Valencia Mayor Paul Vicente G. De La Cruz expressed his excitement about the opportunity to showcase the municipality, particularly the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve. As the tourism capital of the province, this event is a significant opportunity to boost the local tourism industry.
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