Sipalay City's Open Water Swim Circuit: A Boost to Tourism and Coastal Conservation

BACOLOD CITY – The Western Visayas International Open Water Swim Circuit scheduled for Feb. 18 in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, is poised to stimulate local tourism while emphasizing the significance of coastal conservation and protection, according to an official's statement on Thursday.

In an interview, Jerick Lacson, supervising tourism officer, remarked that the event, anticipating the participation of around 200 local and international swimmers and hundreds of visitors, will substantially contribute to the city's economy.

“It will help accommodation establishments, local businesses, souvenir shops, transport operators as well as food producers like farmers and fisherfolk,” Lacson conveyed to the Philippine News Agency.

He highlighted that the program will showcase Sipalay's local culture and traditions through singing and dancing presentations, a cultural trade fair, and a display of local delicacies.

Organized by the Department of Tourism-Western Visayas (DOT-Region 6), the open water swimming competition aims not only to provide an exhilarating experience but also to foster a connection between people and nature. The event underscores the importance of preserving coastal communities.

Lacson emphasized the educational aspect of the activity, intending to enlighten participants on the significance of coastal conservation and protection—an advocacy upheld by Sipalay and embodied in its demonstration of best practices in sustainable tourism.

Participants will contribute to the environmental fee, supporting the city's environmental protection and conservation initiatives. The race venue, the Campomanes-Ballo Marine Reserve and Sanctuary, is a marine protected area itself.

DOT-Region 6 highlighted that participants will be treated to breathtaking coastal and underwater views and have the opportunity to connect with like-minded swimmers passionate about ocean protection and city sustainability.

“This also supports the Sustainable Development Goal 11 mission for sustainable cities and communities. Participants will witness how Sipalay City embraces sustainable practices,” the statement from DOT-Region 6 noted. (PNA)