If you think speedboats are boring and jet skis are for wimps, then Bancarera’s might just be your new speed trip adventure. Bancarera (English term boat racing) is an old and traditional sport competition of fisherfolks from the Philippines. In coastal cities and municipalities, Bancarera is a common event and has become part of most programs during foundation anniversaries, Earth day, and ocean week. Race organizers invite racers from different coastal communities all over the country to participate in the spectacle. The event also draws in local, national and even foreign spectators.

There are two type of boat racing – one that uses paddies and another, using engines. The paddies race features the application of kasig or bamboo paddles on the both side of the boat to move it across the water. This type of boat racing is actually being practiced by marginalized fisherfolks not only as a form of sport but also as a daily source of income. Motor boats are the modified forms of fishing boats that use highly powerful engines to tread the seas. With this type of water vehicle, people are more freely able to personalize boat designs and be faster in bancarera’s. Elite motor boat racers use fiber glass for their boat’s body, a piece of stick to use for pushing, pulling and steering, and a long bamboo shoot for balance. During the race, all participants are required to use engines with uniformed running power.

When the race starts, the rider positions himself on the backside of the boat to balance the weight and let the front portion of boat elevate from sea level to set up the speeding position. Once the signal is given, participants are encouraged to speed up to the extent of their engine’s capacity. The race tests the skills and ability of competitors in maneuvering their boat while rapidly treading waters and the reward is often money and a new engine.