In celebration of its 25th Cityhood Anniversary, the City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, hosted the Sakayan Regatta Boat Race 2026 (Anak-Anak Couple and Paper/Tiririt Category) on April 30 at JW Strong Boulevard. The event was organized by the City Tourism Office, headed by City Tourism Officer Claudio Ramos II, as part of the vibrant Sakayan Festival 2026, with 16 participating groups in each category from across Isabela City.
The bangka anak-anak are typically small dugout canoes used by the Sama and Bajau communities. These are often crafted by Sama-Bajau fathers for their children and are patterned after larger dugout canoes such as the junkung.
Tiririt, also known as taririt or papet, is a type of small dinghy used by the Sama-Bajau and Tausug in the southern Philippines. It is commonly motorized and usually carried aboard larger vessels, serving to transport passengers and cargo to shore, as well as to tow boats to port. Meanwhile, the papet is also used as a small inter-island conveyance in Isabela City. It is typically leaf-shaped, with a distinctive hump-backed side profile.
The champion or fastest sakayan will receive P6,000 along with a plaque of recognition. The second-place winner will receive P4,000 and a plaque, while the third-place winner will receive P2,000 and a plaque of recognition. All non-winning teams will receive a consolation prize of P1,000 and a certificate of appreciation.
The Sakayan Regatta Boat Race is one of the highlights of the Sakayan Festival 2026, reflecting the city’s commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural identity while celebrating its continued growth and achievements. (Words by E. Banding-Hadjala, CIO/Photos by KC Galos, IsaTV)
