DAPA, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte – The Philippine Navy Fleet Marine Dragon Boat Team topped the four-day 1st Dapa Siargao International Drago Boat Festival 2023 on Dapa Sunshine Boulevard, Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte province last week.
The Philippine Navy Fleet Marine Dragon Boat Team topped 28 other national and international teams and led in all categories of the 300-meter competition, Small Boat Open, Small Boat Women, Standard Boat Mixed, and Small Boat Mixed.
They received P200,000, trophies, and medals.
The RRMC Bluefins Dragon Boat A from General Santos City placed second, the United Dragonhearts from Dumaguete City was third, while the Hibatang Paddlers from Calbayog City was fourth.
They received cash prizes of P150,000, P100,000 and P50,000, respectively, trophies, and medals.
Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco Jose “Bingo” F. Matugas ll, local officials led by Dapa Mayor Elizabeth T. Matugas, and Department of Tourism (DOT)-13 officials and organizers thanked supporters for the success of the event.
“Our heartfelt gratitude to everybody, especially the local government unit officials who worked hard for the success of this event where many tourists both foreign and domestic also arrived here to witness the most thrilling sea competition this period,” DOT-13 Director Ivonnie B. Dumadag said.
She said the Department of Tourism-Caraga aims to boost tourism through destination marketing, infrastructure development, and product diversification.
“This includes launching a comprehensive marketing campaign, upgrading transportation systems, engaging local communities, and promoting niche tourism offerings,” Dumadag said, adding “The goal is to attract more visitors, create economic opportunities, and contribute to the region's growth.”
Kylee Doreene O. Plaza, DOT-13 tourism operations officer, said tourist arrivals went up due to the event held after a two-year lull due to the pandemic. “As influx of tourists was noted in this big event, we are also expecting more tourists arrivals in the upcoming 2023 World Surfing Cup this September, also in this Paradise Island of Siargao,” she said.
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