THE annual Siargao International Gamefishing Tournament, now on its 11th year, kicked off Wednesday with Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco Matugas once again spearheading the internationally-renowned competition.
Rep. Matugas said both local and international anglers will vie for the championship this year in the gamefishing tourney hosted by the municipality of Pilar from April 11 to 16.
“Gamefishing is a big thing in the bountiful seas of Siargao,” the Surigao del Norte said. “With species such as marlin, tuna, grouper, dorado and billfish, avid anglers won’t be disappointed with their bounty.”
Present during the opening of the competition were former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who was present in the first tournament, Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Tulfo-Teo and Leyte Rep. Lucy Torres Gomez and actor-turned Mayor Richard Gomez.
Rep. Matugas said this year’s edition will be the biggest so far in terms of prizes, participation and attendance by national government officials.
The previous year, Filipino anglers showed their skill in game fishing in their home waters as they almost shut out the rest of the competition.