In the men’s first heat, the RP dragons led from start to finish, clocking in at 1:54.85. Brunei came in at second (2:07.64).
Myanmar, last SEAG’s silver winner in the event, ruled the second heat in 1:56.01 while erstwhile leader Indonesia was second in 1:57.59.
The women’s 10-a-side also barged into the finals, topping the second heat of their 500-m race.
The RP lady dragons clocked 2:13.38 while Singapore came in second at 2:24.86. Myanmar’s women team was first to qualify as they edged Indonesia in heat A, 2:12.21-2:13.98.
"Basing it on their time, the women’s team will have a hard time against Myanmar. With the men’s team I think we have a slight advantage," said Philippine Dragon Boat Federation technical director and national head coach Nestor Ilagan. — Brian Borleo