Sports: It’s More Fun in the Philippines
With its breathtaking landscapes
and magnificent sceneries, the Philippines is truly a paradise to consider when
talking about travel. The diverse wonders these 7,107 islands possess, tourists
surely have the perfect place to stay for an exciting exploration and every
imaginable way of adventure.
“I noticed that at on the back of
the bills here (referring to P1000 cash denomination); you could see all the
terraces and tons of water.” Brian Grubb said on a video where he was skating
down a rail atop of one of the most beautiful spot in the world – the
picturesque Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao. The professional wakeskater from
United States showcased the centuries-old Eighth Wonder of the World from a
different light. He added, “It’s just a wakeskate paradise but no one even knew
it was here.” The stunt featured the serene majesty of the ancient tourist attraction,
bringing together sports and tourism.
Sports Haven Destinations
Today, sports enthusiasts are also
raving in the opportunity to explore the province of Pangasinan as a premiere
sports tourism hub in the north. Committed to sports and youth development,
Governor Amado T. Espino, Jr announced the opening of water sports adventures
like Kayak, Dragon Boat, Parasailing, and Jetski in the province.
Surfing in La Union and Siargao,
white water rafting in Cagayan, boardsailing in Boracay, wakeboarding in
Camarines Sur, scuba diving in Palawan, mountaineering in Mindanao, and kayaking
in Subic are some of the sought-after adventure destination in the country. On
all just about the corners of the country, travelers are loaded with
attractions they ever dream of. No doubts that the Philippines is a fantastic
spot for tourists who crave for a thrilling adventure.
Sporting Events
Seeking to encourage and
stimulate sports tourism, the country hosted the FIBA Asia 2013 in early August
where Gilas Pilipinas clinched a berth in the FIBA World Championship in 2014,
and the NBA Global pre-season game between Indiana Pacers and Houston Rockets in
the world-class basketball stadium at the Mall of Asia Arena.
With the emerging popularity of
football, thousands of fans of Philippine Azkals are travelling around the
country to catch their favorite players play against local and foreign teams
during friendlies and FIFA sanctioned games. Matches held in stadiums, whether,
Panaad in Bacolod, or Rizal Memorial Stadium, are usually flocked by local or
even foreign fans, boosting local economy and tourism.
On the other hand, the country
also attracts top pool players around the world to compete in prestigious
international tournaments organized in the country annually. Tournaments like
World Nine Ball Championships and World Ten Ball Championships are hosted in
Manila, which is also known as the “Pool Capital of the World”.
Sports Tourism
Sports tourism, as recognized by
the government and tourism industry, as an ideal avenue to spur tourism and
economic growth, has opened more gateways to local businesses and services and
has created employment opportunities. In
2012, almost 4.2 million tourists visited the Philippines, climbing 12 notches
higher in the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2013 Travel and Tourism
Competitiveness Index. The country improved from 94th to 82nd
overall out of 140, edging countries of the region as the most improved policy
makers in the tourism industry.
There’s more to the Philippines
than an extensive beaches and vast plains. Home to the gorgeous beaches,
majestic sceneries, captivating culture and history, and welcoming locals, the
nation of more than 7,000 islands has become a preferred spot for sports and
adventure activities. The Philippines has truly transformed from an ordinary
tropical spot to sporting event destination. It offers plenty of opportunities
to explore that are favorable to sports, adventure, and recreational
activities.
The regular staging of national
and international sports events do not only underscore the world-class scenery,
flair and skills of local athletes, but highlight the country as a legitimate
sport tourism destination.
