Ironman race in Subic Bay boosts local tourism

Triathletes compete in the Ironman 70.3 inside the Subic Bay Freeport on Sunday, March 6. (Photo courtesy of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority)

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT––Two years after imposing restrictions on tourists due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this free port has started to revive its tourism industry with the staging of sports activities.

In a statement on Sunday, March 6, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said the Ironman 70.3 held at the Boardwalk Area of this economic zone that day drew at least 2,500 tourists.

According to the SBMA tourism department, the visitors include the 900 participating athletes, their families, spectators, and free port stakeholders.

“The Subic Bay Freeport has been the favorite venue for triathlon events such as the Sunrise Events, Inc.’s Ironman 70.3 because of its pristine beaches, first-rate amenities, and friendly services,” the SBMA said.

This free port has been touted as a leading tourist destination in the country and is starting to recover its popularity as a venue for national and international sporting events.

Last month, a group of athletes who will represent the country at the SEA Games arrived here for training. This is the country’s men’s volleyball delegation, who will train for two months at the Subic Sand Courts.

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