WINNERS. Team KFJ from Borongan, Samar, dominates the 1st National Invitational Boat Racing: The Battle of the Brands, held Sept. 28-29 in the Dinagat Islands. The race is part of the province’s 18th founding anniversary celebration, which will culminate on Oct. 2. (Photo courtesy of the Governor’s Office, Dinagat Islands)
BUTUAN CITY – Racers from Borongan, Samar, claimed victory in the 1st National Invitational Boat Racing held in the Dinagat Islands, which concluded Sunday.
The race, held from Sept. 28 to 29 and titled "The Battle of the Brands," was one of the main events leading up to the Bugkosan Festival, set for Oct. 2.
“The Battle of the Brands holds deep cultural significance for the people of Dinagat as we celebrate this year’s Bugkosan Festival,” Dinagat Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. said in a statement on Monday.
Bugkosan, which means “to bind together,” marks the 18th anniversary of Dinagat’s founding as a province.
Pocholo Gaed of Team KFJ from Borongan, using a KTEC 20-horsepower engine, took first place and was awarded the championship prize of PHP300,000.
Team Doremon from Panabo City, Davao del Norte, finished as first runner-up, receiving PHP200,000, while Team Ellemar from Santa Maria, Davao Occidental, claimed second runner-up and won PHP100,000.
Team Sports Pacific from Maasim, Sarangani, secured third place with a prize of PHP50,000.
Fifteen teams from across the country competed in the boat race, which boosted tourist arrivals on the island as part of the festivities.
On Oct. 2, Dinagat’s founding day, the Bugkosan Festival will feature several events, including the Stationary Dance Competition, where five groups from different towns will showcase their talents. Governor Demerey is also set to deliver his State of the Province Address on Oct. 1. (PNA)
