Iloilo City is bustling with activity as it prepares for the 52nd Paraw Regatta Festival, a celebration of the region’s deep maritime roots and the oldest traditional craft event in Asia. The festival, which is also the largest of its kind in the Philippines, is set to showcase the seafaring prowess of the Ilonggos.
Dr. Roberto Somosa, the chair of the sailing events, announced a new addition to this year’s festivities: a Junior Slalom Race for participants aged 12 to 16. This shorter race, spanning about 2.5 km, aims to engage younger generations in the art of maneuvering traditional paraws, contrasting with the main event’s 32 km course. Somosa expressed his commitment to fostering youth participation, hoping to see at least five young racers, though the event will proceed as a demonstration if the target is not met, with consolation prizes for participants.
Two teams from Boracay Island have already confirmed their participation in the junior race scheduled for February 27. The main sailing event, set for March 2, will maintain its traditional three categories. Category A will strictly use traditional materials like wood and bamboo, while Categories B and C will allow the use of aluminum outriggers. Somosa emphasized the festival’s role in preserving the country’s traditional boats.
The Iloilo Festivals Foundation, responsible for managing the city’s festivals, has decided to purchase three paraw boats. John Lex Bayombong, chair of the 2025 Paraw Regatta Festival, believes these boats will help promote the event and offer learning opportunities for those interested in sailing. These boats will be available for tourists to experience an ‘Eat-and-Sail’ adventure for a small fee during the festival, which runs from February 23 to March 2.
Bayombong reported that preparations are 70% complete, with final touches being added to various side events. The festival will feature a diverse array of activities, including a pork lechon festival, Sinamba sa Regatta, pinta layag (sails), pinta tawo, coastal cleanup, football tournament, invitational women’s beach volleyball tournament, Frisbee tournament, indoor volleyball tournament, basketball, and aquathlon paraw, among others.