Paraw Regatta 2009 Photos

Iloilo Paraw Regatta 2009

The Iloilo Paraw (sailboat) Regatta, instituted in 1973 is a race among native outriggers in the strait between Guimaras Island and Iloilo City. Called “paraw” in the local dialect, these native outriggers faithfully copy in materials and design sailboats which carried to Panay, in 1212 A.D. the first settlers from Borneo who were in search for a peaceful home. the sailboats have survived the centuries and become a vital part of the Ilonggo seafaring life.

The first Iloilo Paraw Regatta was organized by the Iloilo Department of Tourism. The City of Iloilo, the municipalities of Oton, Jordan, Buenavista, Philippine Coast Guard, Negros Navigation, the late Atoniode Oteyza, Iloilo Boat Club, Panay Amateur Radio Club, the Iloilo Jaycees, Anhawan Beach resort and a host of others, readily welcomed the project and lent a helping hand. Since then, the Iloilo Paraw Regatta has grown both in size and renown. The race has become more exciting, colorful and inevitably a challenge to manage. This year, the Iloilo Paraw Regataa is among the main highlights of Island Philippines, a promotional program of the Department of Tourism. Read more