The Paraw Regatta Festival, which started in 1973, aims to preserve the historic value of "paraws," or outrigger sailboats. 

The regatta has already created a legacy that sails through the artistry and seafaring tradition of the Ilonggo community.

Throughout its staging, the Iloilo-Guimaras Strait has continuously stood as a witness to how the festival rides along the waves of change -- from paying homage to the region's maritime history to currently being one of the largest tourism events that showcases Iloilo's vibrant culture, gastronomic excellence, and environmental awareness, which bring economic opportunities for the city and a collaborative effort for environmental conservation.

The Sinamba sa Regatta held on the night of March 1 showcased spectacular performances, weaving together the city's history and the art of dancing and music that echoed unity and inclusivity among Ilonggos.

The food festival along the area of Arevalo district and the Paraw Lechon Contest also displayed Iloilo's gastronomic excellence, as spectators were given free tastes of Arevalo's best tasting lechon (roast pig). Eight establishments participated in the contest, wherein their products were judged based on taste and presentation.

The Pinta Layag competition and the Miniature Paraw Exhibit also added color to the festivities, as the artworks reflected the maritime heritage of the region and captured the essence of the Paraw Regatta.

Meanwhile, a series of beach clean-ups were conducted as part of the environmental conservation campaign. The ILIG Batiano group was also launched to raise awareness about the current state of the Batiano River and gather support for the initiatives aimed at reviving the vital waterway.

continues to inspire and unite our city," the mayor added, and he thanked the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI) and other partners for the success of the event.

John Lex Bayombong, chairman of the 51st Paraw Regatta Festival, on the other hand, said that the celebration is a living testament to the Ilonggos' artistry and the seafaring tradition in the region, which has already evolved into a grand festival.

He added that the paraw race reflects how Ilonggos continue to sail through the waves of challenges and manage to face the unpredictable tides of life.

“We should remember that just as the paraws rely on the wind, we, too, draw strength from the collective breeze of our community. Our journey is marked by a shared determination to rise above the waves that test our strength," he stressed. (AAL/JNH/PIA Iloilo)