Beach sports could take center stage in Lapu-Lapu City in 2028 as local officials explore the possibility of hosting competitions for the Asian Beach Games.
Congressman Junard “Ahong” Chan and Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez recently discussed the Philippines’ hosting plans and the prospect of staging some of the regional sporting event’s competitions in Lapu-Lapu City.
Chan said the Games would bring athletes from different Asian countries to compete in beach and water sports, martial arts and other individual disciplines.
The sports lineup being considered includes beach volleyball, beach handball, 3x3 basketball, beach soccer, open water swimming, swimming, jet ski, sailing, windsurfing, surfing and dragon boat.
The proposed program also includes beach judo, beach sambo, beach wrestling, beach MMA, beach jiu-jitsu, beach karate, aquathlon, beach athletics, modern pentathlon, sport climbing and teqball.
Chan said hosting the Games could draw more visitors to Lapu-Lapu City and other parts of Cebu as athletes and guests explore local tourist destinations and experience Cebuano food and culture.
“Bibo kaayo ang atong syudad o ang tibuok Sugbo nianag higayuna kay maka-expect na sab kita og bisita gikan sa lain-laing nasud,” Chan said. (Our city and the entire Cebu province would become more vibrant during that time because we can expect visitors from different countries.)
He said increased visitor activity could also benefit the local tourism industry and economy.
“Dako kaayu ni og impact sa atong tourism industry ug sa atong ekonomiya,” Chan said. (This could have a major impact on our tourism industry and our economy.)
Chan expressed optimism about the city’s potential role in the regional sporting event.
“I look forward to the hosting of the 2028 Asian Beach Games! Puhon!” he said. (I look forward to hosting the 2028 Asian Beach Games! Hopefully.)
The discussions are part of the initial efforts to assess Lapu-Lapu City’s potential to host selected competitions if the Philippines proceeds with plans for the 2028 Asian Beach Games.
Photo courtesy of Inquirer.net
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