Camiguin: The province of Camiguin is gearing up to host 306 participants from 15 countries for its inaugural Ironman 5150 Triathlon on Sunday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Camiguin Provincial Tourism Officer Candice Borromeo announced on Saturday that there will be a temporary full road closure along the Camiguin Circumferential Road. The closure, which extends from Barangay Tangaro in Catarman to Barangay Anito in Mambajao town, will be enforced from 3 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the day of the race.

The triathlon will commence with a 1.5-kilometer swim around the Sunken Cemetery. This will be followed by a 40-kilometer bike leg along the Circumferential Road and conclude with a 10-kilometer run to the Sports Complex. "Authorities said no entry, no parking, and no road crossing will be strictly enforced during the race window, with traffic personnel deployed across key areas. Emergency vehicles, however, will be granted priority access," Borromeo stated.

In preparation for the event, police underwent a pre-deployment briefing at Camp General Bonifacio Aranas in Mambajao to ensure coordinated operations. Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism-Northern Mindanao (DOT-10) emphasized the significance of global sporting events in enhancing the region's profile.

"Hosting an international event like the Ironman 5150 in Camiguin highlights Northern Mindanao as a premier destination for sports tourism. It not only showcases our natural beauty but also drives economic activity and global recognition for our local communities," commented DOT-10 Director Marie Elaine Unchuan.

The Tourism Office also noted that hotel and resort accommodations have been fully booked in the vicinity of the event since last week. Local authorities are urging both residents and visitors to adhere to traffic advisories and security measures to ensure the smooth and successful staging of the triathlon.