SHEILA Lumbatan, City Mayor's Office Chief of Staff and concurrent co-chairman of Higalaay 2024, announced Wednesday that the Dragon Boat Kagay-an (DBK) will celebrate its 8th anniversary with a major event: the DBK CUP.
This will be the third major race of the year and is set to become the biggest dragon boat race in the Philippines, with an impressive prize of one million pesos for the overall champion.
Lumbatan emphasized the city's commitment to the sport, urging the dragon boat community in the Philippines to prepare for the DBK CUP 2026.
"We have always been serious in our pronouncements. You have two years to prepare!" she stated, encouraging support and participation through social media engagement.
Earlier this month, the Barangay Carmen Dragon Boat Team showcased their exceptional skills at the 2nd Kagay-an International Dragon Boat Fiesta Race 2024, held at Isla De Oro.
The team secured multiple top positions, including being the Champion in the Under 24 Standard Mixed 400m category and 1st Runner-Up in the Under 24 Standard Open 400m event.
They also achieved two 2nd Runner-Up positions in the Standard Open Premier 400m and Standard Mixed Premier 400m categories.
Lumbatan stressed that the team's remarkable performance is a testament to their dedication, resilience, and teamwork.
Their journey in the competition, marked by triumphs and camaraderie, has left a lasting impression on the dragon boat community, said Lumbatan.
Beyond their impressive wins, the Barangay Carmen Dragon Boat Team represents hope and transformation for the members of the Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP).
The sport has provided a positive outlet for personal growth and change, inspiring others within the community.
The team expressed gratitude for the support from Carmen Barangay Chairman Joaquin "Kikang" Uy and the Barangay Council, which has been instrumental in their success.
Their achievements underscore the power of unity and perseverance, serving as an inspiration for others to strive for greatness.
As the Dragon Boat Kagay-an prepares for its 8th anniversary and the upcoming DBK CUP, the spirit of collaboration and determination continues to drive the Barangay Carmen Dragon Boat Team towards new heights.
