• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
Bacolod Rep. Greg Gasataya declared the 1st Bacolod Watersports Festival 2024 officially open last Friday at the Bacolod Baywalk Recreational Park in Bacolod City, after a pre-show exhibition of several water sports.
“I know we need these kinds of activities to help pump prime the economy of Bacolod,” the solon said as he congratulated ALMANA Group of Companies CEO and president Richie Neil Corpus for pursuing his dream of having such an activity.
The 800-meter seafront of the Bacolod Baywalk will host various water sports and related activities such as bancarera, beach volleyball, boat tug-of-war, and paddling among others from March 16 to April 28.
Former Bacolod councilor Ricardo “Cano” Tan said this (watersports festival) is a brilliant idea and is something we all can be proud of.
Bacolod Councilor Jason Villarosa said he will sponsor an ordinance making the watersports festival an annual event in Bacolod.
In an interview, Villarosa said Corpus is proposing to have two watersports festivals in Bacolod – one during summer and the other during the MassKara Festival.
“Bacolod City Tourism Office and our local government unit stand as pillars of support, enabling government for tourism stakeholders, ensuring seamless coordination and promoting Bacolod as a tourism destination,” Bacolod Tourism Operations Officer Ma. Teresa Manalili said in her message at the opening.
“Your presence fuels our mission to attract more tourists to Bacolod,” she said.
In other places, water-sports have emerged as a powerful catalyst for attracting travelers and enhancing destination appeal, sha added.
Manalili said the allure of watersports transcends borders and captivates the hearts of adventure-seekers worldwide.
Watersports inject vitality into local economies by generating revenue streams across various sectors. Whether it’s through hotel accommodation, air, land, sea transport, equipment rentals, or dining experiences, the tourism dollars and praises stimulated by watersports activities ripple through communities, supporting livelihoods, and fostering economic growth, she said.
Moreover, watersports serve as a magnet for tourism development, drawing attention to previously undiscovered gems and revitalizing coastal destinations. As travelers seek immersive experiences that connect them with nature and local culture, destinations with thriving watersports scenes emerge as coveted hotspots, driving foot traffic and stimulating infrastructure investments, Manalili said.
In conclusion, the impact of watersports activities on the tourism industry cannot be overstated. From driving economic growth and promoting environmental sustainability to fostering social cohesion and cultural exchange, watersports activities enrich our lives and enhance the appeal of destinations around the world. As we navigate the evolving landscape of tourism, let us embrace the transformative power of watersports and harness its potential to create a brighter, more sustainable future for all, she added.*
