The waters of Rizal Boulevard in Dumaguete City came alive with energy and excitement as the Negros Oriental Dragonboat League 2026 brought together more than 500 paddlers from across the country in an unforgettable celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork, and tourism May 23.
With the iconic seaside boulevard as the stunning backdrop, families, friends, tourists, and sports enthusiasts gathered to witness powerful races, fueled by determination, unity, and heart.
The event showcased not only elite dragonboat talent but also the growing strength of sports tourism in Negros Oriental, the Capitol said in a press release May 24.
In the men’s category, the top four winners are Bakunawa Dragonboat, The Hamlet Dragons, both from Iligan, Brgy. Carmen Dragonboat from Cagayan de Oro, and San Jose Baratti.
In the women’s category, the winners are Dagun Pilipinas Dragonboat – Manila, PADS A – Cebu, Bakunawa Dragonboat – Iligan, and Boracay Dragonforce.
In the mixed category, the winners are Bakunawa Dragonboat – Iligan, The Hamlet Dragons – Iligan, Dagun Pilipinas Dragonboat – Manila, and Aklan Dagyab – Boracay.
“From every paddle stroke to every cheer from the crowd, the Negros Oriental Dragonboat League proved that the province is ready to make bigger waves in the national sports scene,” the Capitol said.
The successful event was made even more meaningful through the strong support and presence of Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, whose administration continues to champion sports development and tourism initiatives in the province, it added.
Also lending their full support were Dumaguete City Mayor Chiquiting Sagarbarria, 2nd District Rep. Maisa Sagarbarria, executive director RR Maquiling, and Board Member Angel Amador-Soliva, all united in promoting Negros Oriental as a premier destination for world-class sporting events, the press release added. ||
