BY coincidence or by design, the Philippines’ hosting of the International Canoe Federation World Dragon Boat Championships from Oct. 27 to Nov. 4 in Puerto Princesa, Palawan is timely as the ICF celebrates its centennial anniversary as the governing world body for the sport.
“As the president of the Philippine Canoe Kayak Federation, it is both an honor and a humbling responsibility to host the ICF World Dragon Boat Championships in Puerto Princesa, especially as we celebrate the International Canoe Federation’s centennial anniversary,” PCKDF president Leonora Escollante noted in a statement.
“This milestone not only celebrates the sport’s rich legacy but also propels us into a future where dragon boat racing continues to inspire, unite, and drive positive change,” added Escollante of bringing the premier ICF-sanctioned global paddling competition to the country’s shores.
She was grateful that Puerto Princesa City government under the dynamic leadership of Mayor Lucilo Bayron had given its all-out support in staging the championships that will make the Philippines the epicenter of dragon boat racing for a week.
“I must extend my deepest gratitude to the City of Puerto Princesa and, in particular, Mayor Lucilo Bayron, for their unwavering support and belief in this sport and in the vision of the PCKF. Mayor Bayron and his administration have been fully committed from Day One, offering 100 percent backing in terms of logistics, resources, and facilities,” the PCKF head pointed out.
“Their dedication to making Puerto Princesa not only a premier destination but also a key player in the world of sports has been inspiring. Together, we’ve aligned on a theme that resonates deeply—”Paddle Together for Climate Action,’” she explained.
“This theme highlights our shared commitment to using sports as a platform to raise awareness on the urgent need for climate action while fostering sports tourism.”
Escollante disclosed that at least 20 federations and close to 2,000 paddlers from all over the world have committed to sending teams to take part in the blue-ribbon competition that will serve as the main qualifying tournament to the World Games scheduled Aug. 17 to 25 next year in Chengdu, China.
This added incentive will ensure the success of the ICF Dragon Boat World Championships in Palawan’s scenic provincial and another feather in the cap for Mayor Bayron, who has been aggressive in promoting the “City in a Forest” as a major sports tourism destination.
“Organizing this world-class event has been a rewarding yet challenging journey. It is heartwarming to see more than 20 federations from different countries step forward, recognizing the value of dragon boat racing and how it brings nations together in the spirit of competition and camaraderie across all age groups,” Escollante noted.
“Dragon boat racing is one of the most environmentally friendly water sports, perfectly suited to Puerto Princesa’s pristine waters. Hosting this event in such a beautiful, nature-rich setting underscores the connection between sports and environmental stewardship,” she said proudly of the host city.
“With the combined overwhelming support from the local government and private sectors, and international sponsors, this journey has been a humbling experience. I truly believe this championships will be a lasting legacy for Puerto Princesa and a defining moment for the sport in the Philippines,” she concluded.
