CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — In a showcase of traditional skill and community spirit, fishermen from Catbalogan City emerged victorious in the Samar Day Banca Race held on August 3, this year.
The event, which saw participants navigate a couple of kilometers route in the Maqueda Bay in the vicinity of Barangay Payao to Barangay Ubanon, celebrated the rich maritime heritage of Samar while highlighting the impressive prowess of local fisherfolks.
The ever active Catbalogan City boatmen dominated the competition, outpacing 17 other contingents from across the province to claim the championship and a prize of P15,000.
Mayor Dexter Uy of Catbalogan City extended his heartfelt congratulations to the winning team, praising their dedication and skill in maneuvering the traditional bancas.
“Congratulations to our resilient fishermen for their outstanding performance in the Samar Day Banca Race. Your victory not only showcases our city’s maritime excellence but also reinforces our commitment to preserving our rich fishing traditions,” Mayor Uy expressed.
While Catbalogan City took home the top honor, Jiabong town secured the second place and took home P10,000, and Paranas clinched third place with a cash prize of P7,000. Consolation prizes of P3,000 were awarded to the remaining teams, recognizing their participation and contribution to the event.
One of the highlight activities of the Samar Founding Anniversary on August 11, the Banca Race not only provided a platform for showcasing local maritime talent but also underscored the importance of sustainable practices in capture fisheries and aquaculture.
Through this annual event, the province reaffirms its commitment to preserving and celebrating its fishing traditions, with Catbalogan City’s triumph standing out as a proud symbol of the region’s enduring maritime heritage. | via Ricky Bautista
