At least 38 boatmen from areas in Visayas and Mindanao participated in the seventh year of the bancathon or banca marathon, a race of motorbancas in Talisay City, Cebu.

The race was held in the waters of Barangay Pooc morning on February 21, 2025.

The 38 boatmen hailed from Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Cebu in Central Visayas; Samar in Eastern Visayas; and from Zamboanga City and Surigao City in Mindanao.

It was learned that more boatmen participated this year compared to 2024 with only 20 participants.

According to Barangay Pooc Chairman Osmundo Manreal, Jr., the participation of more boat racers in 2025 means that the festival for fishermen in their barangay has begun to gain following and recognition from more people.

He said that the participation of more “bangkareros” (boat racers) is a huge help in invigorating barangay tourism in Talisay City.

The festival recognizes the value of fishermen and the bounty of the seas that sustains most families in their barangay.

The bancathon is one of the highlights of the fiesta celebration in honor of Saint Peter, patron of the barangay, who was a fisherman when he was called for discipleship in Jesus Christ’s ministry, based on Bible history.

The bancathon dangled P100,000 for the first-place winner, according to event organizer Ivan Rey Tan.