Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) Administrator and CEO Hussein Pangandaman (6th from left) with tournament organizers and top age-group triathletes during the launching of the 5150 FAB Triathlon on Thursday (June 19, 2025). The tournament set for Nov. 16 not only brings world-class multisport action to Bataan but also positions the province as a rising powerhouse in the Philippine sports tourism scene. (Contributed photo)
Bataan is set to make waves in the world of sports tourism as it prepares to host the first-ever 5150 FAB Triathlon on November 16, a landmark event that underscores the province’s push to become a premier destination for world-class athletic competitions.
Organized by Sunrise Events, Inc., the triathlon will follow the Olympic distance format: a 1.5-kilometer swim, 40-kilometer bike ride, and 10-kilometer run. The event will unfold across the historic town of Mariveles and the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) — offering a mix of demanding terrain, breathtaking coastal views, and modern infrastructure.
Bataan, long known for its heroic past marked by the Battle of Bataan and the Bataan Death March, is now setting its sights on a future built on tourism and economic momentum through sports.
“The 5150 FAB Triathlon reflects our belief in the Freeport’s potential as a hub for international sporting events,” said FAB Administrator and CEO Hussein Pangandaman. “It’s a chance to highlight our world-class facilities, our stunning natural landscapes, and most importantly, the resilience and warmth of our people.”
Pangandaman emphasized that the triathlon is not only a sporting event but a vehicle for broader development. “This is more than just a race. It’s a spark for economic activity and a major step toward establishing Bataan as a key player in the sports tourism arena.”
With its expansive roadways, clean air, and a backdrop of sea and mountains, Bataan is positioning itself as a strong alternative to popular triathlon venues like Subic, Puerto Princesa, and Cebu. The 5150 FAB Triathlon promises athletes not just a physical challenge but an unforgettable scenic journey.