CEBU CITY – The city government of Dapitan gears up for a busy September, known in the country as Philippine Tourism Month.
Dapitan will mark Tourism Month with a vibrant celebration of heritage, culture, and community spirit.
“Dapitan, long revered as a historical gem and rising star in the tourism sector, is preparing to shine brighter than ever,” said city Tourism Officer Apple Marie Agolong.
This year, the city once again hosts the prestigious Ironman 5150 with athletes and spectators from across the globe.
“Nestled strategically across from Negros Island and serving as a gateway to Mindanao via the nautical highway, Dapitan has always been a beacon for tourists seeking both adventure and a deep dive into Philippine history. With its rich tapestry of history and natural beauty, Dapitan is a destination like no other in Mindanao,” added Agolong.
The Ironman 5150 event in Dapitan offers participants more than just a race, it is an immersive journey back in time, said Agolong.
The race route, aptly named "Rizal’s Trail," leads athletes through significant landmarks where Dr. José Rizal, the Philippine national hero, once walked during his years in exile.
This blend of physical endurance and historical exploration makes the Dapitan Ironman 5150 truly unique, celebrating the city’s identity as a haven for both visitors and investors, Agolong said.
Before the Ironman 5150 takes center stage, Dapitan will host the Noli Run, a four-kilometer heritage race inspired by Rizal’s iconic novel, Noli Me Tangere.
Participants will don costumes that bring the characters of Rizal’s masterpiece to life, turning Dapitan’s streets into a living tableau of the novel.
The race is not just a physical challenge, it is also a journey through the very pages of history, tracing the steps of Rizal during his exile from 1892 to 1896.
Agolong pointed out that Dapitan’s ability to host such high-profile events speaks to its unwavering commitment to safety and hospitality.
“Despite common perceptions about Mindanao, Dapitan stands out as one of the safest places to visit in the region. This reputation was further solidified with the visit of the Foreign Armed Forces Attachés (FAFAs) on October 7, 2023 and various international ambassadors, all of whom lauded the city’s secure and welcoming environment. Their presence underscores Dapitan’s appeal as a global tourist destination where history, culture, and modern amenities seamlessly blend,” said Agolong.
Adding to the city’s charm is Mindanao’s largest street park, a sprawling urban oasis that enhances Dapitan’s status as a premier tourist destination, she said.
The city’s secure and inviting atmosphere has also attracted significant investment, with investors citing their positive experiences in Dapitan as a key factor in their decision to invest, Agolong said.
Led by Mayor Seth Frederick P. Jalosjos, known as the "Ironman Mayor," she said Dapitan is taking its events to unprecedented heights as the city’s official hashtag, "Dapit na sa Dapitan" captures the essence of the upcoming festivities.