by Gerry Lee Gorit
CAMIGUIN ISLAND, Philippines — The Department of Tourism region 10 (DOT-10) took center stage at the launch of the 2nd Camiguin Isle Bike Tour, held at Ayala Mall in Cagayan de Oro City. The event, aimed at promoting Camiguin as a premier biking destination, was spearheaded by Department of Tourism Regional 10. Northern Mindanao Director Marie Elaine S. Unchuan.
In an interview, Director Unchuan thanked the Romualdo family for their leadership and commitment to developing tourism in Camiguin. “We are thrilled to finally launch the 2nd Camiguin Isle Bike Tour. The collaboration with the provincial government under Governor Xavier Jesus D. Romualdo and Congressman Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo, along with the provincial tourism office, has been instrumental in bringing this event to life,” she remarked.
Scheduled to kick off on August 10, 2024, the 2nd Camiguin Isle Bike Tour promises to deliver limitless adventures for biking enthusiasts. The event aims to spotlight Camiguin’s stunning tourist spots, support local businesses, and promote sustainable development through eco-tourism. This initiative is part of the Bike NorthMin program, which seeks to establish Camiguin as a key player in the biking tourism sector.
The tour features a scenic 64-kilometer loop, designed to showcase the island’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage. Bikers will navigate through several notable stations, including the Tongatok Cliff Resort, the historic Old Spanish Church Ruins, Sagay Freedom Park, Guinsiliban Moro Watch Tower, and Katunggan Mangrove Park. The journey will begin and conclude at the New Capitol Grounds of Camiguin, ensuring a picturesque experience for all participants.
This year, the event expects to attract around 360 cyclists, a significant increase from the 146 bikers who participated in the inaugural tour in 2023. The collaboration among local government leaders, including Mayor Ynigo Jesus De La Fuente Romualdo, aims to harness the potential of bike tourism to enhance the region’s appeal. The full backing of various government agencies such as the Philippine National Police, Coast Guard, and Bureau of Fire Protection ensures a safe and organized biking experience.
The 2nd Camiguin Isle Bike Tour represents a significant step towards diversifying the tourism offerings in the province, aligning with the broader objectives outlined by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco’s seven-point tourism agenda. With its stunning landscapes and unique attractions, Camiguin Island stands ready to welcome biking enthusiasts from across the nation, offering them an unforgettable adventure.
As the countdown to the event begins, excitement is building among both local residents and visitors. The tour not only promises an exhilarating biking experience but also aims to foster a sense of community among participants while showcasing the beauty and potential of Camiguin Island as a thriving tourism destination.
