International sports fishing tourney begins in Siargao

PILAR, SIARGAO ISLAND - Renowned anglers from all over the world will troop to the “Gamefishing Capital” of the Philippines, the town of Pilar, in pursuit of the biggest catch at Siargao’s 5th International Game Fishing Tournament from April 26 to April 30.   The Department of Tourism (DOT), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, Pilar Local Government, and sponsors such as the San Miguel Corporation all contributed in getting the tourney off the ground.   First district representative Francisco T. Matugas, his wife Governor Sol Matugas, Mayor Lucio Gonzales, along with other officials from the province and invited guests, will lead the opening rites of the five-day event, backed fully by renowned fishing clubs from all over the Philippines.   Pilar mayor Lucio Gonzales said the annual activity draws thousands of tourists, boosting the inherent potentials of his town. It is home to the famous Magpupungko Rock Formation and Blue Lagoon, considered one of the best natural swimming pools in the world.    “This gamefishing tournament is an avenue for us to boost our pride, being Pilarnons,” he said.   The tournament also provides various livelihood opportunities for the locals, he added.   In the absence of commercial and well-developed resorts like those in General Luna, which is famous among surfers from all over the world, the Department of Tourism institutionalized a home-stay program in Pilar and provided formal training to local home-owners willing to accommodate visitors and guests.   Local boatmen also see additional income, as they get hired and paid by anglers within the duration of the tournament.   The gamefishing activity also heralds the development of the town’s basic infrastructure, highlighted by the rehabilitation of the road network from Osmeña junction to the town proper. This concreting of the stretch from Osmeña to Pilar is expected to be completed within the next couple of years. Some basic tourist structures have also been constructed at the Magpupungko Blue Lagoon, the primary destination of tourists.   Aside from the beautiful and relaxing summer ambiance, various fun-filled activities await the participants and guests. These include cultural shows, a nightly live band, and a beachwear fashion show courtesy of the San Miguel Corporation, in addition to the big prize money offered by the tournament.   Siargao, known as the “Surfing and Sportsfishing Capital of the Philippines” can be directly reached by flying Cebu Pacific to Siargao Island via Cebu every Monday and Friday. Daily flights from Manila to Butuan or Manila to Surigao via Airphil Express or Cebu Pacific are also available. - Natz C. Corbeta/AMD, GMA News