MANILA, July 14 -- It's all systems go for the 4th Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, scheduled on Aug. 21-23 at the Boracay Newcoast.

The event, organized by Philippine Aquatics Inc. in cooperation with Southeast Asia Aquatics, the province of Aklan and various government agencies, aims to showcase athletic excellence while promoting sportsmanship, cultural exchange and Philippine sports tourism.

"We are very proud to host this event because open water swimming is an Olympic event," said PAI Secretary-General Eric Buhain during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum Tuesday at the PSC media room.

An estimated 100 to 120 swimmers from eight countries, including...