An International Sporting Event on Bohol’s Calendar
BOHOL - Bohol is exploring another opportunity to expand its sports tourism offerings through the proposed Bohol Glow in the Dark International Dragon Boat Festival 2027. Preparations were discussed during a meeting at the Governor’s Office on October 1, 2026. The event is proposed for August 6–8, 2027, at Miramar Wharf in Dauis, as part of the annual Sandugo Celebration. If carried out as planned, the festival would bring together local and international dragon boat teams for a competition that combines athletic skill, teamwork, and the province’s coastal setting. The proposal also reflects how sporting events can complement Bohol’s established tourism attractions and cultural festivities.
Local and International Teams Could Join the Competition
The proposed festival is expected to welcome dragon boat teams from different locations, with six international teams, including participants from Canada and Thailand, being considered for participation. Dragon boat racing requires coordination, endurance, rhythm, and cooperation among paddlers, making it a sport that emphasizes teamwork. The provincial government is proposed to serve as the institutional partner and provincial host, while the formation of a Technical Working Group is underway to help formalize the partnership and coordinate preparations. Further planning will be important in determining event arrangements, participating teams, logistics, and other requirements before the proposed festival takes place.
Sports Tourism Can Showcase Bohol’s Coastal Communities
An international sporting event in Dauis could create opportunities for visitors to explore nearby accommodations, restaurants, local businesses, and other attractions while attending the competition. As part of the Sandugo Celebration, the proposed festival could also connect sports with Bohol’s cultural identity and community activities. Careful coordination involving event organizers, local authorities, tourism establishments, and community partners would help ensure that preparations consider visitor needs, public safety, waste management, and the protection of coastal surroundings. With further planning and confirmation, the proposed dragon boat festival could become another platform for introducing Bohol to sports enthusiasts while highlighting the province as a destination for both cultural experiences and sporting events.
