INQUIRER Sports

MANILA, Philippines - Thanks to surfing, Bagasbas Beach is becoming a major tourist attraction for the province of Camarines Norte.

Provincial tourism officials noted at least 30 percent growth in the number of visitors annually since surfing clinics were put up two years ago.

The 2nd Bagasbas Summer Surf Festival will be held on April 4 and 5, an event put up by the local government to help promote tourism in the province.

The event features surfing clinics designed for those interested in learning the sport. It also features outdoor sports such as rock-climbing and ultimate frisbee.

?We want amateur or even aspiring surfers to learn the basics of surfing here in Bagasbas," said events organizer Joey Cuerdo during a press briefing Friday at the Department of Tourism headquarters.

Known for its consistent waves ranging from two to five feet tall, Bagasbas is touted as an ideal place for beginners unlike more challenging surf spots like Baler or Siargao.

"This means less risks of injury for those still learning how to surf," said provincial tourism officer Edgardo Reyes.

For a fee of P500 each, visitors can join clinics teaching basics such as how to position on a surfboard, paddling into the wave and other precautionary measures.