Local fishermen reign in Leyte kayak marathon

MANILA, Philippines - Local fishermen and first-time kayakers dominated the inaugurals of the Eastern Visayas 15 km Kayak Marathon in Palompon, Leyte recently.

The tandem of Lloydan Cabagte and Judy Singson bested 11 other teams to romp with the top honors, boosted by their years of experience in paddling.

Completing the charge of the fisherfolk are the duos of Junior Bregildo and Willy Booc, and Ariel Ilaida and Elmo Lagat who finished second and third places, respectively.

Organized by the Palompon Municipal Eco-tourism Council Inc. (PMET Inc.), the event was held on the beach island of Kalanggaman to the Port of Palompon.

According to Palompon Mayor Ramon Oñate, the event, supported by the Department of Tourism-Region 8, the Provincial Government of Leyte, the 4th District Congressional Office of Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez, the Philippine National Police, and the Philippine Coast Guard, aims to make the town as a new sports adventure tourism site in the Visayas.

The event was also held to promote environmental protection through eco-water sports and help appreciation of local culture and history.

Situated off the western coast of Leyte province, Kalanggaman is regarded as the “hidden gem of Eastern Visayas” because of its powdery white sandbars and crystal clear waters. It is also a marine sanctuary because of its diverse marine life, making it an ideal snorkeling spot.

Oñate added that he envisions to make the kayaking tournament a regular event to make it a haven for close-to-nature sports and generate livelihood activities for the locals.

Palompon’s other tourist spots which are ideal for eco-adventure sports are Tabuk Marine Park Fish and Bird Sanctuary, Buenavista Underwater Caves and Mabasa Falls.

The kayak marathon is the kick-off of the town’s Lawig Festival 2011 and patronal fiesta of St. Francis Xavier which concludes on Dec. 3.