Cycling Enthusiasts Revive Luzon Tour: A Significant Biking Event in the Philippines
Pedaling through Filipino Legacy: The Return of The Tour of Luzon
The Tour of Luzon, a Philippine cycling race steeped in tradition and resilience, has made a triumphant comeback, sending ripples throughout the cycling community. This year's edition, christened "The Great Revival," has lit up the hearts of cycling fanatics nationwide, rekindling the spirit of determination, endurance, and madness that once defined the race's golden years.
Tracing its roots back to the 1950s, the Tour of Luzon started as a multi-stage cycling race across the magnificent island of Luzon. Over the decades, it transformed into a prestigious sporting event, catapulting legendary Filipino cyclists like Antonio Arzala, Cornelio Padilla, Jose Sumalde, and my hometown's very own, Mawe Reynante, into the spotlight.
For many years, the Tour of Luzon came to symbolize summer, as riders battled searing heat, erratic weather conditions, and formidable terrains to claim victory. During its zenith, the race captivated the nation, with spectators lining the roads to cheer on their heroes.
As a ravenous teenager, I would take up position along the streets of Alabang, waiting to catch a glimpse of Mawe Reynante as the convoy rolled through Muntinlupa. Easily identified by his signature Yellow Jersey, Mawe was a force to be reckoned with. I would eagerly switch on to radio station DZHP to soak up Joe Cantada's blow-by-blow commentary of the race. The following morning, although I already knew the results, I would hunt for sports writer Gus Villanueva's report in the widely read Manila Times.
The race met its demise in the late 1990s due to financial difficulties and waning support. However, after years of absence, it has returned with a fierce determination, vowing to reignite the Philippines' love for cycling.
This year's Tour of Luzon offers eight stages, traversing picturesque locations such as Ilocos Norte, La Union, Tarlac, Pampanga, Pangasinan, and Benguet. The race commenced in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, and will culminate in Baguio City, where riders will have the daunting task of scaling the legendary Kennon Road—a true test of endurance and skill.
To many Filipinos, the Tour of Luzon signifies more than just a race—it's a cherished memory. The thrill of witnessing athletes push themselves to their limits, the inspiration garnered from their resilience, and even the occasional youthful mishap on a bicycle, all contribute to the Tour of Luzon's undeniable allure within Philippine sports history.
With its return, the Tour of Luzon is once again demonstrating that cycling thrives in the Philippines. The Tour of Luzon 2025 has concluded with an exhilarating finish! South Korean cyclist Joo Dae Yeong clinched the overall title, edging out Filipino rider Jan Paul Morales by a mere six seconds—one of the closest finishes in the race's history.
The final stage, held in Baguio City, saw fierce competition as riders conquer the grueling Kennon Road climb. Filipino cyclist Joshua Pascual stunned everyone by winning the stage and clinching the prestigious "Eagle of the Mountain" title. Meanwhile, MPT DriveHub claimed the team general classification honors, walking away with a P1 million prize.
Looking forward, race organizers have announced intentions to expand the Tour of Luzon next year, incorporating additional stages in Southern Luzon and welcoming more foreign teams. The unwavering support from fans and sponsors has lifted spirits for an even grander and more exciting edition in 2026.
Despite the grueling Kennon Road climb in Baguio City, Filipino cyclist Joshua Pascual successfully won the final stage of the Tour of Luzon 2025, earning the prestigious "Eagle of the Mountain" title. South Korean cyclist Joo Dae Yeong clinched the overall title, narrowly edging out Filipino rider Jan Paul Morales by just six seconds - one of the closest finishes in the race's history. With the success of the Tour of Luzon 2025, plans are underway for an expanded event next year, featuring additional stages in Southern Luzon and welcoming more foreign teams, promising an even grander and more exciting edition in 2026.
