Spectators have once again witnessed the skills of boatmen in Western Visayas via the Paraw Main Race, one of the highlights of the 52^nd Iloilo-Guimaras Paraw Regatta Festival.

At least 44 colorful paraws (traditional outrigger boats propelled by sails or “layag”) competed in a 30-kilometer race from Villa Beach in Arevalo District, Iloilo City to the Municipality of Oton and back to Iloilo Strait on March 2, 2025.

Despite being newbies, Team Arjonel from the Province of Guimaras maintained their composure as they proved their mettle.

“Masaya. Enjoy-enjoy lang sa mga alon,” Arjonel Pabilona, a competitor, said.

Meanwhile, the family of Anne Lei Guanco, a spectator, always looks forward to the Paraw Main Race.

“Ang gaganda talaga kasi. Each and every boat iba-iba yung variety ng mga paintings nila. Every year, bumabalik dito yung mga kamag-anak namin galing US,” Guanco said.

One paraw suffered mishap at sea. The paraw capsized during the race. However, it has put to test the character of other competitors who chose to help fellow competitors to safety. 

Aside from the main race, a Paraw Lechon Contest that offered free-tasting to visitors became an attraction.

“Upang makatikim tayo ng pinakamasarap na lechon (roast pig) at pinaka-the best. Worth it talaga. Sarap,” Jovie Alcantara, a visitor, said.

Moreover, spectators especially Samba enthusiasts, witnessed the colorful and impressive group performances of five groups in the Sinamba sa Regatta 2025 on March 1, 2025.

Each group demonstrated the talent of Ilonggos in dancing and musicmaking.

Grupo Bailarines del Manduryaw was awarded second runner-up, Grupo del Oeste as first runner-up, while Grupo Ilonggo de Saltatores was declared champion.

“Next year we are trying to invite (as) many paraws as we can all over Western Visayas. So, seeing 53^rd Paraw Regatta next year which is brighter and bigger Paraw Regatta and a bit of world-class,” said John Lex Bayombong, chairman of the 52^nd Iloilo-Guimaras Paraw Regatta Festival.