Incoming: All Women’s Run Asia

Women Power

21K Medal

Celebrate Woman’s Month this March 2024 with a run designed exclusively for Women on March 3, 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex. Women Power takes the extra distance with a run event for women of all ages and fitness level with a beginner-friendly short distance road runs of 3K, 5K and 10K and a half marathon event for those who prefer to go for the longer distance. All Women’s Run more than just a race, it’s a celebration of empowerment, strength and unity. This unique gathering is crafted to create a community where women from all walks of life come together to celebrate their achievements, embrace their individuality, and uplift one another.

Follow their social media account to get more events:

Women’s Fitness Asia will be hosting a series of running IN events exclusively for women of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner looking to take your first steps, this is your opportunity to participate in a supportive and inclusive community that celebrates the accomplishments and resilience of women. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and join us in this extraordinary celebration of women’s empowerment through running. Together, we will cross the finish line and inspire each other to reach new heights!

The run is also here to celebrate our Supermoms as they have a special category where they can run for FREE.

More details here: All Women’s Run

Registration Details

  • Date: May 3, 2024
  • Venue: SM Mall of Asia Grounds
  • Distances: 500m, 3K, 5K and 10K and 21K
  • Registration: Hyvesports
  • Race Updates: Women’s Fitness Asia
  • Registration Rates
  • Inclusions:
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Incoming: JCI Manila Colorfest Electric Night Run For Hope

Electric Run Goes to Alabang

After a memorable and fun-filled inaugural Colorfest Electric Night Run at Bridgetowne, Pasig comes another run that’s gonna thrill and electrify the runners with visual display of neon lights in the black of the night. The next Colorfest Electric Night Run is happening in Filinvest, Alabang on May 18, 2024 and is organized and powered by JCI Manila. The run aims to raise funds for the improvement and expansion of the Night Shelter of Hospicio De San Jose. This shelter serves as an overnight refuge for homeless individuals and families.

 JCI ColorFest Electric Run for Hope is not just a run; it’s a vibrant celebration of unity and goodwill. This incredible event, brought to you by the passionate members of Junior Chamber International (JCI), is more than just a journey of footsteps—it’s a journey of hope! The run takes to the streets of Filinvest, Alabang and be thrilled with another electrifying evening of lights, colors, and hope at the JCI ColorFest Electric Run for Hope!

Registration Details

  • Date: May 18, 2024
  • Venue: Filinvest, Alabang
  • Distances: 1K, 3K, 5K and 10K
  • Registration:
    • Premium Race Kit
    • Special Early Bird (November 16-December 15, 2024) – P 1,500
    • Early Bird (December 16-February 29, 2024) – P1,700
    • Regular Rate (March 1-April 30, 2024) – P2,000
    • Last Chance (May 1-17, 2024) – P2,200
  • Inclusion:
    • Race shirt 
    • Night Light Glasses 
    • Race bib 
    • Finisher Medal 
    • Drawstring Bag 
    • Hydration 
    • Color Packet 
  • Registration: Hyvesports
  • Race Updated: Colorfest Facebook Page
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#TaleofTheTrail Jade Mountain (Yushan National Park, Taiwan)

Jade Mountan
Jade Mountain Main Peak 3,952 MASL

Asian Trilogy

I started this trilogy as a completely different person as I still couldn’t figure out how I climbed the peak of Mount Kinabalu at 4,095 MASL in shorts and just a Jansport Bag. Mount Kinabalu summit felt like an out-of-this-world experience with the summit being a huge granite structure. I was a bit more prepared with Mount Fuji in terms of gear and the switch back trails felt friendlier ascending to 3,776 MASL. Mount Fuji had the best sunrise view and it will make you realize why it’s called the land of the rising sun. Jade Mountain had as taking on a more challenging trail condition with the rain, the cold and the bouldering trail to the summit at 3,952 MASL.

Relive the experience:

Jade Mountain

Jittery that’s how I felt before the hike. I was like a grade schooler feeling scared on his final exam. It’s my first major hike after the pandemic and Jade Mountain was really elusive, missing the lottery twice and another cancelled hike at the start of the pandemic. It’s a different type of preparation for this one is I had to cram to be fit enough for the hike with runs / hike in Tanay, Baguio, Manila and Hong Kong.

First 2 days was spent in Taipei before heading to our homestay before the hike on Day 3 and 4. It was raining already at the start of the hike at Tataka Trail Head. We were 10 in the Group led by Guido Sarreal of Trail Adventures and our 2 local guides. It’s gonna be a challenging trail ahead. Day 1 was 8.5K assault with almost 900 meters elevation gain to Paiyun Lodge.

Tataka Trail Head to Paiyun Lodge

While the descent is spread over 8.5 kilometer. I consider this part the hardest as we were carrying our hiking bag and mine is over 10 kilos and it was raining all throughout the traverse. Our group went at a fast and steady first at the 1.5 kilometers of steep switch back rocky technical trails which was a challenge because of the rain. The ascent becomes moderate with several descents and a lot of stairs and wooden and steel inclines until kilometer 5 where we had our lunch. I paced with Melba as we were about the same pace.

The rain made our clothes and gear heavier and with a foggy and windy backdrop, it felt extra cold.

After lunch was the last 3.5 kilometers to Paiyun lodge, the next kilometer was the most challenging part – technical rocky surface and steeper climbs before it smooths out a bit after a kilometer. We were a bit slower at this time especially since we were already above 3,000 MASL. At kilometer 7, I can already feel pain in my quads and knees so I had to manage my pace and rest stops. The final 100 meters to Paiyun Lodge was another challenge with a steep final assault to the lodge. Jelly legs and cramping but made it to the tough part.

Upon reaching Paiyun Lodge and when I had to change to drier base layers, I cramped down to my toes so this had me thinking if I would still have legs fit enough for the summit assault. i tried resting my legs and it would be a judgement call based on how I feel when I wake up before the summit assault.

Paiyun Lodge to Jade Main Summit

Up next was a 2.4 kilometer climb to Jade Main Summit with 560 meters elevation gain. We switched to our day pack so it was lighter to hike. When I woke up there was still pain on both side of my thigh and my right knees. Anyway, I decided to go and just be careful with my steps so I don’t injure myself. It was all climbing at this point and I just made sure I was seeing the elevation and the elevation gain on my watch as i would want to count down the climb to the summit.

We went at a steady pace over rocky surfaces that was pure ascent. It was a good easy pace for us. It was a straight climb but we just went consistent with a few rest stops. It was also really cold especially approaching the higher part of the trail. There was a part that we got to appreciate the moon and stars and thought that we would be having some clearing. The trail became tougher as we got higher. It was much colder but we were steady on the climb holding on to chains to pull us through the climb. The last 400 meters was us bouldering and scrambling over huge rocks on our was to the summit and there it was Jade Mountain Summit. Unfortunately, there was no clearing.

That was the moment, Asian Trilogy Complete!!! This was a tough one but felt really good to complete the Asian Trilogy. I would have hope that there was a clearing so we can at least appreciate the view but the feeling of accomplishment was there and it felt that I was indeed ready for anything. I paced with Ting on the descent and took our time as there was a bit of clearing and we were already able to see the mountain range.

Paiyun to Tataka Trailhead

The last part was the easy one as it was pure descent save for a few climbs. There was already clear skies at this part. I paced with Jiggy and took so many photos on the descent because we had no view yesterday. It was really nice to see the ridges and mountain range and a friendlier dry trail. We were down in less than four hours to conclude the Jade Mountain Adventure.

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Incoming: Colorfest Electric Night Run

Colorfest gets electrified with a night run edition happening on December 2, 2023 at Bridgetowne, Pasig. Colorfest Electric Night Run comes in fun and friendly 1K, 2K and 5K distances as you enjoy the vibrant colors of the night and the party atmosphere of the event.

The Run Gets Electric

The Colorfest Electric Night Run is set to take place on December 2, 2023, in Bridgetowne, Pasig. This night edition of the popular Colorfest Run offers friendly distances of 1K, 2K, and 5K runs, making it accessible to a wide range of participants. With a focus on creating a party atmosphere and an adrenaline-pumping adventure, the event promises an unforgettable experience under the night sky.

Participants can expect a unique nighttime adventure filled with electric lights, vibrant colors, and a feel-good vibe. The event brings the running community to a thrilling and enjoyable running experience, making it a must-attend event for those seeking both fun and fitness on the night of December 2nd in Bridgetowne, Pasig.

Event Details

  • Date: December 2, 2023
  • Venue: Bridgetowne, Pasig
  • Distances: 1K, 2K, 5K
  • Registration:
    • Special Early Bird (August 25 – September 15, 2023) – P 1,500
    • Early Bird (September 16-October 31, 2023) – P1,700
    • Regular Rate (November 1-25, 2023) – P2,000
  • Inclusion:
    • Race shirt
    • Night Light Glasses
    • Race bib
    • Finisher Medal
    • Drawstring Bag
    • Hydration
    • Color Packet
  • Registration: Hyvesports
  • Race Updated: Colorfest Facebook Page
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Incoming: 31st Yakult 10 Miler

Yakult has been a fixture when it comes to fitness and nutrition in the Philippines with their good priobiotics taking care of our tummy for Decades. Yakult 10-Miler has also been a pioneer in the running scene with it’s 31st edition happening in October 15, 2023 at the CCP Complex.

31st Yakult 10 Miler

From Yakult Youtube Page

Running is back on its boom stage and among the event that stayed true to its commitment in fitness and in health was Yakult Philippines. In more than 3 decades, Yakult has been hosting the Yakult 10 Miler and its 31st edition is happening on October 15, 2023 at CCP Complex. The run is open for runners of all ages with newbie friendly 3-Kilometers, 5-Kilometers, 10 Kilometers and of course their 10-miler (16-kilometer) distances. You can register via Hyvesports Portal.

By taking part in the Yakult Run, individuals not only engage in physical activity but also join a community that celebrates resilience, community spirit, and personal achievements. So, lace up your shoes, push your limits, and be part of this remarkable journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. Register now and embrace the Yakult Run challenge!

Race Details

  • Date: October 15, 2023
  • Venue: CCP Complex
  • Gunstart
    • 10 Miler – 4:30 am
    • 10 – Kilometer – 4:45 am
    • 5 – Kilometer – 5:15 am
    • 3 – Kilometer – 5:30 am
  • Fees and Inclusion
    • 10 Miler – P1,250 (Inclusions Singlet, Race Bib with timing chip, Finisher Medal, Hydration, Yakult, 16K Finisher’s Shirt)*
    • 10 – Kilometer – P950 (Inclusions Singlet, Race Bib, Finisher Medal, Hydration, Yakult)*
    • 5 – Kilometer – P650 (Inclusions Singlet, Race Bib, Finisher Medal, Hydration, Yakult)**
    • 3 – Kilometer – P650 (Inclusions Singlet, Race Bib, Finisher Medal, Hydration, Yakult)**
      • * Early Bird discount P200 until July 15, 2023 only
      • ** Early Bird discount P100 until July 15, 2023 only
  • Registration: Hyvesports
  • Website: Yakult Philippines
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Itogonia Wild Country Trail Run 2023

Itogonia 8K felt like a struggle to me. I’m no longer used to the frenetic pace of a race or a climb. I’m more or less down to being a recreational trail runner. My legs and lungs would disagree but I did have a good time revisiting my home trail.

Itogonia

When Don started Itogonia 5 years ago, I had the chance to have a first look at the course with and 8K Camp John Hay to Poblacion in Itogon run. Then there was another time from Poblacion to Kotkot Saddle and also another variation of the course from John Hay to Gumatdang. So there’s such a legacy already with the Itogonia race. Somehow, it was always a wet day at the trail. 2023 had a scare before the race as there was a typhoon before the race, which resulted to having the plan B route (Camp John Hay trails).

Camp John Hay

Camp John Hay is home trails for me and I’ve probably gone through all the variations of the course since it’s always part of my routine when I go home in Baguio City. If I wanted an easy day at the trail, I’ll take the upper part and head to the lower part and if I want more challenge I would usually start from the lower part take the steep climb to VOA Embassy and enjoy the upper part.

Fun Before The Race

Basketball with the Race Director

Day before the race was kit claiming and race briefing. On the lag times, I had a chance to play basketball with the Race Director Don. I also welcomed our guest Ms Aura International 2021 Faith Garcia and team who had a chance to stay at Casa Cielo at Pinewood Ridge.

Medtecs also supplied their ultra light facemasks, which is perfect for running especially that Baguio has the regulation of mandatory wearing of masks indoors.

With Team Aura led by Ms Aura International 2021 Faith Garcia

It was also great to meet running friends and meet new ones as well.

Ms Aura Faith, Mr International Papi Otep and Trevor from Malaysia.

The Race

With Faith

8K had an adjusted gun start of 8 am. Since this is Baguio and the Camp John Hay trails were mostly shaded, It was really nothing to worry about. I usually run on the trails at 10 am or noon so it would be a bit warmer. I’m a bit rusty on the run since I haven’t been running lately due to workload so this was a brisk walk pace kind of run.

Photo by Naethan Modales

First kilometer of the route was from CAP John Hay to the riding circle, which was mostly paved roads. I was just walking at this point allowing faster runners to go first. The plan was go conservative until the steep climb at kilometer 3. After the riding circle, it was a steep descent to the lower part of the trail. I always enjoy the views from this part with a rich Pine Forest Trails, which also transform to a moderately ascending trail heading to Kadaklan before it descends again for the lowest part of the trail.

Huffing and Puffing after the climb – Photo by the one and only Papi Otep

Whenever I race I always identify the challenging part and this was it. From kilometer 3, it was around a 600-700 meter ascent with about 30%+ gradient. From a constant walk pace, I shifted to a run and rest pace. I tried to do 50 steps and take a few seconds to catch my breath before making the next effort. Since we are using the trail part of the climb, it was more challenging than the road ascent adjacent to this because of the switchback climbs. It was a struggle but I know it’s only a short stretch. The climb led to the road stretch and then one final climb. Up there was the aid station with a lot of familiar faces led by Papi Otep. Upon reaching the Voice of America Aid station. It was also my mind saying the race is good as accomplished as I am done with the hard part.

HI Faith

Whenever I do this trail, I like the stretch from the upper part up to the red fire hydrant as it gives you a peek of Itogon mountain range on several part of the trails. I met Faith at this stretch on her second loop for her 16 Kilometers distance. This stretch is mostly flat with a short climb in the middle and a short descent heading to the red fire hydrant. It felt like routine at this point but it still felt tiring especially with no training.

Photo by Miles of Active Pinas

On the way back, I met Naethan who’s also a marshal of the course. We were at talking pace discussing about the trails. Most of the time when I’m on the trails, I bump into Naethan doing his regular plogging and clean up of the trails. He also supports our trail academy advocacy. We separated at the VOA Embassy Gate and it’s less than 3 kilometers for me back to the finish line. This part of the trail was mostly single track but mostly flat with a few ascents and descents until the riding circle. I exited the trail on the horse back riding area and then it was the road part back to the finish line.

I enjoyed feeling the race environment again though I’m still convincing my legs and lungs to do more race like this. Congrats Itogonia Team on a well organized race.

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The Road To OATM 3

204 energetic, passionate and endorphin-filled people made me remember that if we put premium to the experience of the participants, we get a very successful and memorable event. On Philippines and Pinoy Trails resumes On A Trail Mission at a very scenic and run-able Timberland Heights last May 7, 2023.

On A Trail Mission 3

Let’s start with a shout out to On Philippines, who’s been our title sponsor for the past three On A Trail Mission. We’re growing the event with your support from the high peak of Mount Bidawan to the Steep climbs of Mount 360 and now on the scenic trails of Timberland Heights. When we started OATM, we never thought of it as a series but more on two brands uniting in promoting the advocacy of fitness, nature and the outdoors. 3 legs and more to come. I guess OATM is here to stay.

Timberland Heights is always special to me being the site of 3 flagship races and 2 trail academies. It’s so flexible that a slight tweak in the race route will give you a totally different experience. Since we tried to limit the registrants of OATM 1 and 2, I knew the Timberland Heights edition would be different. All my events here were mass participation events with 400-600 participants from races and 200-300 participants for trail academies. We wanted to create an experience that’s friendly to newbies of all ages and fitness level. Thanks also to our regular sponsors in Dans, Polar Watches, Lightwater and Vitamin Boost, Lecka and Timberland Highlands Resort.

Aside from the registration, I had to make sure that the pacers would buy in on the advocacy. On our first trail academy in Timberland in 2018, we had a group recon with the pacers before the event. This time, we had a zoom briefing and surprisingly, we had an excellent group of pacers all united in a cause and even sharing their own ideas. Up next was the registration and despite not boosting our posts, we had an influx of registrants that reached more than 200 already.

We had our initial recon in March to establish the trails then a secondary check in April to check on critical areas. We then had a final recon a day before the event for marking the trail and also to ensure that the trails were safe. We’ve actually identified a blockage in the Green Zone due to a fallen tree. Fortunately, this was immediately resolved by Timberland Estate. I love doing recons because it’s where I get to feel the experience in store for our participants plus we really put premium on safety.

The race village was up and ready the day before the event so we only had minor setup for event day. Everything was on time and it was amazing how participants came in droves which eventually ended up with 204 trail participants. The talk were on time and showed variety from the different speakers and pacers. The run part was fun with everybody getting the feel of the beautiful trails of Timberland Heights especially the panoramic Table Top.

Event monitoring with Timberland Heights guides

Honestly, I was still not that confident in being able to mount events as big as I used to. Even before the event, I had to go through all those what could go wrong scenarios and possible actions. At the end of the day, it was a game of execution and being able to adjust to the situation. With the help of Timberland Heights guides, pacers and fellow runners, we were able to adopt to surprises during the event. All got back safe to the finish line and that’s a blessing on its own. The crowd’s energy was in full display up until the closing of the event as they discovered a new trail, a new experience and met new friends.

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ZamPen’s Open Water Swim at Lake Maragang is A One Of A Kind Race-cation

What do you look forward to in a race? Is it a way to challenge your limits?  Is it your way to immerse and socialize with the community?  Is it your way to appreciate nature in its raw and pristine form? 

Lake Maragang’s open water swim is a little bit of everything. It’s a challenging 1.5 or 3 kilometers distance around the lake. The event was also an appreciation of the raw natural beauty of the lake, which also came with a 5-kilometer roller coaster habal ride from Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur.  Then, it was a great way to feel the local hospitality, the delicacies and the presence of key dignitaries of the region during the event.  

Open Water Swim

Photo from Zampen Openwater Swim Circuit Facebook Page

Over 100 swimmers dared to swim the 1.5 and 3 kilometer distance around the murky waters of Lake Maragang.  While the ZamPen’s open water swim is a competitive race, the organizers were able to make it a fun, festive and friendly race environment that had participants ranging from kids to seniors.  The 3-kilometers swimmers had to do two loops around the lake while the 1.5-kilometers swimmer had to complete one loop around the lake.  While there were heavy rains before the race, this did not deter participants from starting and eventually finishing the race.  There was also premium on safety with buoys place for each swimmer as a way to identify the participants in the race.  One advantage of having the swim leg in a lake is that you can see all the participants in the lake.  At the end of the race, everybody had a sense of accomplishment and a happy experience joining the race.

A Beautiful Adventure

Even before the race, it was an exciting ascent already via habal ride on rolling ascending single track paved roads along cliffs and ridges.  You got to admire the driving skill of the riders over the climbs and curves in the road.  It was a roller coaster adventure from Tigbao to Lake Maragang at around 750 meters above sea level (MASL).  The reward of that intense ride was the majestic Lake Maragang.  I just love how calming lakes are especially Lake Maragang, which is a heart shaped lake and is such a scenic delight.  I even took the trails surrounding the lake was another beautiful adventure for us.  It was raw trails which is heavily forested. It was an up and down, slip and slide adventure in the trails. We also got see various insects like centipedes, moths and even the scary wasp plus occasional peeks of the lake from various vantage points.

Cold Weather, Warm People, Great Food

Lake Maragang had a micro climate and its mostly cool at its elevation of 750 MASL.  I really welcomed the cold weather coming from mostly tropical weather in Metro Manila.  While it’s been cool at the lake, it felt warm how we felt the local hospitality from us enjoying the local delicacies to their signature local wine collection.  We also felt secure the whole time with ample security in the area and also seeing local dignitaries during  the event including the Municipal Mayor of Tigbao, Hon. Eleazar Carcallas, DOT’s regional director Dara Cataluna and USEC Myra Valderoza-Abubacar.  They were also one with the participants in the event including the presentation of Finisher Medals, awarding of top finishers and of course, enjoying the food  during the event.

About ZamPen Open Water Swim Circuit

Lake Maragang is the third leg of the ZamPen Openwater Swim Circuit held last April 30, 2023. The first two circuits were held at Onse Islas (11 Islands) in the City of Flowers in Zamboanga City last February 12, 2023 and Buluan Island in Zamboanga, Sibugay last March 19, 2023. The next will be held in Dakak Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte on May 28, 2023.

Visit ZamPen

If you haven’t been to the Zamboanga Peninsula, this is your chance to experience its colorful mix of old and new culture and breathtaking views. You’ll get to tour around the region while enjoying an exciting open water adventure. 

For more information about the ZamPen Open Water Swim Circuit, follow their facebook page: ZamPen Open Water Swim Circuit 2023.

The Zamboanga Peninsula Open Water Swim Circuit is a project of the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, Zamboanga Open Water Swimming Club, Inc, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 

Support is also provided by the Local Government Units (LGU) of the City Government of Zamboanga, the Provincial Government of Zamboanga Sibugay, the Municipality of Tigbao Zamboanga del Sur, and the City Government of Dapitan Zamboanga del Norte.

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Incoming: Colorfest Asia

Why live in black and white when you can live in colors? Colorfest Asia brings the fun back in the run with a colorful visual display along the run and the post run celebration. It’s happening at Vermosa Grounds on April 30, 2023 and Mall of Asia on May 21, 2023.

Colorfest Asia

Color Runs are back and it’s just getting started! Colorfest Asia returned last March in La Union and it will not only take the Philippines by a colorful storm but it goes for the rest of the region as well. Just imagine combining the thrill of the run with a colorful festival with food and music to liven up the celebration. Run hard and party even harder.

It’s come with a distance of 3k, 5K and 10K that’s perfect for newbies and experienced runners as well. The next two legs is happening in Vermosa, Cavite on April 30, 2023 and Mall of Asia on May 21, 2023. Visit https://colorfest.asia for more details and registration.

Konsulta MD #IWantToBeHere Colorfest

Vermosa has been a world class sports facility situated at Imus, Cavite with close proximity to Metro Manila and it’s a perfect venue for the run and party atmosphere that Colorfest brings. Get an event shirt, race bib, finisher bling and color packets as your basic inclusion at P850 and get an additional inclusions of sunglasses and reusable tote bag when you go premium at P1,350.

Registration Link: Konsulta MD #IWANTTOBEHERE Colorfest

JCI Manila Color Run For Education

Mall of Asia is at the heart of Manila’s running scene that comes with the scenic Manila bay backdrop along the route. JCI Manila Run for Education ins not your usual party and run activity as this one also cause with a noble cause. Your participation and ticket purchase will go a long way in helping us build a school and make a difference in the lives of children who are in dire need of education. Basic registration comes with an event shirt, race bib, color packet and finisher medal while premium registration comes with an event shirt, race bib, color packet, ecobag and sunglasses and finisher medal.

Registration Link: JCI Manila Run for Education

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Incoming: The Zampen Open Water Swim Circuit

Open water swim has been the a great way of exploring the country. Race-cation destination just got another location on their list with The Zampen Open Water Swim Circuit featuring the scenic Zamboanga Peninsula with four open water swims happening between February to May, 2023.

The Zampen Openwater Swim Circuit

The Zampen Openwater Swim Circuit Presscon

Last February 4, 2023, The Zampen Openwater Swim Circuit was launched at The City Club in Makati with key officers from Zamboanga City that includes City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian Hernandez, DOT Region 9 Director Dara May Cataluna, DOT Region 9 Senior Tourism Officer Charles Anthony, President of Zamboanga Open Water Swim Club and consultant for the Zampen Project Japy Silapan, President of Philippine Swim Inc Ms. Lani Velasco, Members of Zamboanga Open Water Swim Club Alejandro Ong III and Oliver Tan with the COO of Bert Lozada Swim School Angelo Lozada.

The ZamPen Open Water Swim Circuit is a partnership project of the Department of Tourism 9 and the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines. The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Zamboanga, the Provincial Government of Zamboanga Sibugay, the Municipality of Tigbao Zamboanga del Sur, and the City Government of Dapitan Zamboanga del Norte are active partners and supporters of the project.

Zamboanga Peninsula

Zamboanga Peninsula is one of the places in the Philippines where you’ll find a perfect mix of the old and new, the classic and the modern. So-called because of the many traditional flowers aligned on its roadsides, ZamPen is an interesting and colorful visual spectacle of culture, history, nature, and people.  

It may be Mindanao’s smallest region but it is packed with attractions, activities, and places to discover.   Going around the region, you’ll find a unique blend of Spanish, Western, and indigenous architecture. You won’t run out of exciting adventures in ZamPen. 

So, it is no wonder that the region has been chosen as the venue for the Open Water Swim Circuit set to happen starting February 12.

Spearheaded by the Department of Tourism – Region IX, with support from the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, the event will gather open water swimmers in four different venues across the region. 

The competition has seven major objectives:

  • To promote the human-and-nature connection
  • To promote aquasports tourism under Zamboanga Peninsula Region’s Ecotourism Product Portfolio
  • To re-introduce the region’s existing products
  • To highlight Region 9’s Community-based Sustainable Tourism
  • To educate the participants about the value of habitat conservation and management
  • To encourage Indigenous Community members to join the competition so potential Open Water swimmers can be identified

Aquasports and Tourism

A breathtaking feature of the Open Water Swim Circuit is its concept of moving the activity from one ZamPen location to another, allowing participants to enjoy the expansive sceneries and places of the region. The following are the dates and venues for each circuit of the Swim Event.

On February 12, participants will gather at Onse Islas (11 Islands) in the City of Flowers, Zamboanga City.

After a month, the second leg of the competition will be held at Buluan Island in Zamboanga Sibugay on March 19.

The Open Water Swim Circuit will move to Lake Maragang in Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur on April 30.

On May, The participants will head off to beautiful Dakak Resort in Dapitan Zamboanga del Norte.

For every leg of the activity, there will be two or three distances – ranging from 1.5KM to 5KM – that participants can register for. 

Admission Fee and Inclusions

For those who want to join the Open Water Swim Circuit, the registration/admission fee is PhP1,200 per person. This includes a swim safety kit, swim cap, swim buoy, towel, finisher shirt and medal, loot bag, and meals and snacks. 

A special award will be given to participants who complete all four legs of the competition. The titles at stake are:

  • Goddess Magwayen of ZamPen OWSC (Goddess of Water)
  • God Agwe of ZamPen OWSC (God of Water)

Trophies will be handed out and the God and Goddess will each be given a t-shirt as well.

Visit ZamPen

If you haven’t been to the Zamboanga Peninsula, this is your chance to experience its colorful mix of old and new culture and breathtaking views. You’ll get to tour around the region while enjoying an exciting open water adventure. 

For more information about the ZamPen Open Water Swim Circuit, get in touch with Tin or Erika at 09053162845. You can also inquire via email at tin.majadillas@gmail.com. 

The Zamboanga Peninsula Open Water Swim Circuit is a project of the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, Zamboanga Open Water Swimming Club, Inc, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 

Support is also provided by the Local Government Units (LGU) of the City Government of Zamboanga, the Provincial Government of Zamboanga Sibugay, the Municipality of Tigbao Zamboanga del Sur, and the City Government of Dapitan Zamboanga del Norte.

See you in Zamboanga! 

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