Davao's Pride: Dragons Del Sur Paddlers shine at 2025 ICF Dragon Boat World Cup in China

Davao City once again takes center stage in the world of competitive sports as three paddlers from the Dragons Del Sur Dragon Boat Team delivered outstanding performances at the prestigious 2025 ICF Dragon Boat World Cup held in Ningcheng County, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia, China.

Representing the Philippine National Team under the Philippine Canoe Kayak and Dragonboat Federation (PCKDF), Davaoeño paddlers Dirk Quiñones, Hanz Rusty Laga, and Joseph Joriz Labang showcased their power, teamwork, and resilience in multiple race categories—bringing home a collection of gold, silver, and bronze medals.

🏆 Medal Tally:
Dirk Quiñones
🥇 Gold – 10 Seater 2000m Men Open
🥈 Silver – 8 Seater 2000m Men Open
🥉 Bronze – 10 Seater 500m Men Open

Hanz Rusty Laga
🥇 Gold – 10 Seater 2000m Men Open
🥈 Silver – 8 Seater 2000m Men Open
🥉 Bronze – 10 Seater 500m Men Open

Joseph Joriz Labang
🥇 Gold – 10 Seater 200m Mix
🥇 Gold – 8 Seater 200m Mix
🥇 Gold – 10 Seater 2000m Men Open
🥈 Silver – 8 Seater 2000m Men Open

Their achievements not only reflect the exceptional skill and training of the Dragons Del Sur team, but also the growing strength of Philippine dragon boat racing on the global stage.

The city of Davao and the entire nation salute these modern-day warriors of the water for paddling with pride, power, and heart. Congratulations to our champions for making waves for the Philippines.