Guimaras opens doors to WV tourists, hosts cycling event

The province of Guimaras gradually opened its doors to local tourists as it seeks to revive its tourism industry that suffered a major blow from the 2019 Sea Tragedy and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Provincial Government of Guimaras partnered with the Department of Tourism Region VI and the Guimaras Xtreme Riders headed by Ysa Katrina Gumarin and 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games gold medalist Lea Denise Belgira for the first biking event this year.

The event also aims to welcome back tourists who want to explore the splendor of the island.

136 cyclists participated in the Bike Fun Race held last November 22, 2020 at the San Fernando Bike Park at Barangay San Fernando, Buenavista, Guimaras.

The race had 17 categories participated by bike enthusiasts from the province and the neighboring Province of Iloilo.

Liberty Ferrer, officer-in-charge of the Provincial Tourism Office, said that the province is now transitioning to the new normal by hosting events that can attract tourists back to the island.

“We are very glad that after eight long months this is our first sport event, and this is initiated by our young athletes. We are now transitioning to the new normal,” Ferrer said.

The activity is timely as Guimaras aims to become the Bike Paradise of the Philippines according to Ferrer.

Ferrer reminded the public that while the island province is opening its doors to travellers and tourists, it is everyone’s responsibility to uphold the minimum health standard and create a safe environment for all.

Belgira, who made history after she won the first gold medal for the Philippines in the 30th SEA Games, encouraged cycling enthusiasts who attended the event to balance their time for the sport and their studies.

“Bisan hilig niyo ang bike, dapat kabalo kamo mag-balance sang time sa inyo pag-eskwela kag sa sport,” Belgira said.

She added that cycling is a sport that unites people from all walks of life but does not require fuel, only passion.