CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Youth paddlers from Iligan City’s Team Bakunawa captured nine trophies—including five gold, one silver, and three bronze finishes—at the 2nd Puerto Princesa International Dragon Boat Festival and the Philippine Paddlers National Open.
Members of the squad paid a courtesy visit to city officials following their return to Iligan, presenting the hardware earned against national and international paddling crews.
Courtesy Call
City officials noted during the office visit that Team Bakunawa's victory demonstrates how local youth can compete on major sporting stages when given proper backing and training opportunities.
Local leaders emphasized that the medals represent youth discipline, positive community energy, and an incentive for young residents to pursue athletics over vices.
Gold Haul
Team Bakunawa dominated the 2nd Puerto Princesa International Dragon Boat Festival with four championship titles in the Junior U24 Men DB 200-meter, Junior U24 Men DB 500-meter, Mixed Standard DB 500-meter, and Junior U24 Mixed DB 200-meter categories.
The squad added a fifth gold medal at the Philippine Paddlers National Open after topping the 10-Seaters Dragon Boat U24 Open 200-meter race.
Podium Finishes
In the Philippine Paddlers National Open, the crew also secured a silver trophy with a first runner-up finish in the 10-Seaters Dragon Boat U24 Women 200-meter event.
Team Bakunawa rounded out its haul with three second runner-up bronze trophies, led by podium finishes in the Junior U24 Women DB 500-meter and Junior U24 Women DB 200-meter races at the international festival.
Youth Focus
City officials reaffirmed their commitment to funding local sports programs and youth athletic development across Iligan.
Local leaders added that investing in grassroots athletes helps build a healthier, stronger community while inspiring the next generation of Iliganon paddlers.
