On the Dot
By Atty. Helen J. Camarista

Sail on for unity, peace and progress

“Sail On for Unity, Peace and Progress” is the theme of the 33 rd Iloilo Paraw Regatta. This cultural event promises   a lot of thrills as starting this year, the Iloilo Paraw Regatta date shall once again be held on a fixed date, that is, every 3 rd weekend of February. This year's race, the 33 rd staging, is on February 19-20 near Tatoy's Manokan , Villa Beach , Arevalo, Iloilo City . The Iloilo- Guimaras Paraw Slalom 2005 takes center stage February 19 (Saturday) while February 20 (Sunday) is for the 33 rd Iloilo Paraw Regatta.  

Special events are regatta crowd drawers. Launching of the 33 rd Iloilo Paraw Regatta and presentation of Miss Paraw Regatta 2005 candidates was held February 10 at SM City which is also the venue of the Iloilo Paraw Regatta Photo Exhibit (February 14-20) and Miss Paraw Regatta 2005 Pageant (February 18). Pinta Paraw sees to it that the paraw sails are painted truly interesting and colorful   at Tatoy's Manokan February 16-18 while the anglers take off   February 19 at Fort San Pedro and expected to arrive before 12:00 noon February 20 at Tatoy's Manokan . A Beach Volleyball tournament, Pintawo and Poster Making Contest are scheduled at Villa Regatta restaurant after the take off of paraw racers in the morning of   February 20 from nearby Tatoy's Manokan . A Laser Sailboat Fun Sailing is also scheduled in front of Tatoy's Manokan while spectators are awaiting the return of paraw regatta entries to Tatoy's Manokan .

Going back to the Iloilo- Guimaras Paraw Slalom 2005. . . .    The primary objective of this special event is to enhance the seamanship of the crew in handling and maneuvering the paraw under all sea and wave conditions in a preset race course . This race is guaranteed to offer a lot of excitement to participants and spectators alike.

The Department of Tourism Region VI is managing the Iloilo- Guimaras Paraw Slalom 2005 with Regional Director Edwin G. Trompeta , this years Paraw Regatta ExCom Vice-Chairman himself as the race manager. The DOT Region VI is also donating Php65 ,000.00 in   cash prizes for the slalom winners.

Another regatta-related feature sponsored by the DOT Region VI is the 33 rd Iloilo Paraw Regatta Photo Competition which aims to exhibit photographs of good standard and artistic value taken during this year's regatta event. These photographs may be used for future publications and other marketing activities of the DOT.   Php 25,000 in cash prizes and plaques await the winners. Certificate of acceptance shall be awarded entries accepted for exhibition while all contestants shall be given certificate of participation. Interested parties are advised to contact the DOT Region VI for more details about this photo competition.

Don't miss the fun!   Be there when these regatta events happen!