CALBAYOG CITY – The city government hosted the Regatta de Hibatang, the 1st Coolbayog Dragon Boat Competition, on April 1 and 2 as part of its sports tourism campaign.
At least 12 teams from all over the country competed in the open and mixed categories.
Mayor Raymund Uy said that the sports tourism event aimed to upgrade the usual water-based races such as the Hibatang River Banca Race.
"Though our tourism priorities are geared toward culinary and agri-tourism, promoting these priorities through an upgrade of a domestic tourism activity is just like hitting two birds with one stone," Uy said.
He added that Malajog Beach was chosen as the race venue to promote the Malajog Loop which features Samar's longest zip line ride going to an island.
"For now, the regatta is just an introduction. We are looking forward to the sustainability of our tourism plans and convert these tourism endeavors into livelihoods for our constituents, and eventually providerACE income for local business establishments," Uy said.