BALAYAN, Batangas is poised to become a premier destination for regional and national swimming competitions, with the completion of Phase 2 of the Balayan Aquatics Center anticipated this year. Rep. Eric Buhain of Batangas’ 1st District, also the Secretary General of Philippine Aquatics, Inc. (PAI), emphasized the project’s significance in bolstering grassroots swimming programs.
“Kailangan natin palakasin ang swimming program natin sa grassroots level at hindi natin matutugunan ito kung walang mga high-standard facilities na magagamit ang ating mga batang swimmers, particularly sa ating mga regional areas,” said Buhain.
Following the completion of an eight-lane Olympic-size pool last year, the ongoing Phase 2 construction will introduce a lap and training pool, further enhancing the center’s capabilities.
The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by former Congresswoman Eileen Ermita-Buhain, local officials, and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways, marked a significant milestone in the project.
The ceremony coincided with the Rep. Eric Buhain Cup, a competition that attracted over 500 young swimmers from schools, swimming clubs, and local government units across Metro Manila and the Southern Tagalog region. The event, supported by Speedo, showcased the region’s burgeoning talent.
The Quezon Killerwhale Swim Team emerged victorious, accumulating 634.50 points, followed by the University of Perpetual Help University with 535 points. The Wild Splashers Swim Team (423.50), Aqua Sonic Swimming Team (381.50), and Southpick Blueshark (379) completed the top five.
In related news, PAI Executive Director Anthony Reyes announced the closure of registration for the upcoming coach’s seminar scheduled for March 24 and 25.
The two-day event, featuring Canadian Olympic coach Derric Schoof as the speaker, will host 120 confirmed PAI-member coaches. Coach Schoof, renowned for his work with Olympic medalist Kayla Sanchez during her tenure with the Canadian swimming team, brings valuable expertise to the seminar. Sanchez, now representing the Philippines, was recently recognized as Canada Aquatics’ “Swimmer of the Year.”