PHILIPPINE RALLYCROSS AND NATIONAL RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP CELEBRATE 2024 CHAMPIONS

THE Philippine Rallycross Series (PHRX) and the Philippine National Rally Championship (PNRC) honored the top rally drivers of the 2024 season in a grand awarding ceremony held on Mar.14, 2025, at the Oriental Palace in Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

The event celebrated the outstanding performances of drivers across various categories, recognizing their skill and endurance in one of the country's most challenging motorsports events.

As the only rally event sanctioned by the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), the PHRX and PNRC continue to set the standard for rally racing in the country. These competitions not only reward the best drivers but also aim to grow the sport by attracting new talents to the exciting world of rally racing.

Celebrating the best in Philippine rallying

The 2024 season saw intense battles across different categories, with the top drivers emerging victorious. Notable winners included Caloy Calica in Group 1, Louie Camacho dominating Group 2 and Group 3, and Paul Santos securing the top spot in Group 4. Other champions included Mike Reyes in the Open and AWD (all-wheel drive) classes, EZ Ligaya in RWD (rear-wheel drive), and Gabbie Desales as the top female rally driver.

A season of thrills and challenges

The 2024 PHRX season featured seven rounds of action-packed racing held at Parklinks in Pasig, the CCP Complex in Pasay, and Arden Botanical Garden in Cavite. With a mix of tarmac and dirt courses, drivers faced a variety of challenges, testing their adaptability and skills under different racing conditions.

Meanwhile, the PNRC delivered high-intensity rally action across three rounds. The Kagitingan Rally in Capas, Tarlac, pushed drivers through 12 special stages covering 49 kilometers (km) of gravel and dirt terrain. The Unang Sigaw Rally upped the ante with 55 km of competitive stages, while the season finale, Rally Nueva Ecija 2 – Tribute to Jun Espino, took competitors through 50 km of grueling dirt and gravel roads.

Bigger plans for 2025

Building on the momentum of 2024, the PHRX and PNRC are set for an even bigger 2025 season. The rallycross series will maintain seven rounds, while the national rally championship expands to four rounds, including two in Nueva Ecija, one in Cavite, and a historic first inter-island rally in Lubang, Occidental Mindoro. This expansion marks a significant milestone in Philippine rally history, bringing the sport to new regions and broadening its appeal.

Race organizers Olson Camacho and Ronnie Trinidad are confident that these developments will help rally racing reach a wider audience, attracting new fans and competitors while giving seasoned drivers more opportunities to showcase their skills.

Reviving Philippine rally racing

Now in its 10th year, the PHRX and PNRC continue to work towards reviving rally racing's golden era in the Philippines. Unlike circuit racing, rallying tests drivers on unpredictable terrain, from gravel and mud to dirt and tarmac. This makes it one of the most demanding yet exciting forms of motorsports, requiring not just speed but also technical driving skills and strong teamwork between driver and co-driver.

To encourage more participation, the PHRX is rolling out driver training programs focused on rally driving fundamentals, car control, pace notes, and navigation techniques. These initiatives aim to develop new talent in a safe and structured way, ensuring more drivers can experience the thrill of rallying with proper guidance.

Acknowledging supporters and sponsors

The success of the PHRX and PNRC would not be possible without the support of sponsors and media partners. The organizers extend their gratitude to all sponsors who have helped sustain and expand the series.

A special thanks goes out to media partners, including The Manila Times, Manila Bulletin, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Business Mirror, Business World, Auto Review, Motoring Today, Auto Focus, Turbo Zone, Ignition PH, Visor, Top Gear PH, and Carguide. Their extensive coverage has played a key role in bringing rally racing back into the spotlight, generating excitement for both longtime fans and newcomers.

The road ahead

With more race venues, expanded competition, and structured training programs, the PHRX and PNRC are confident that rally racing in the Philippines will continue to thrive. Backed by the AAP, strong sponsor support, and growing media attention, the future looks bright for the sport.

As the 2025 season approaches, rally fans can expect more action, tougher competition, and an even bigger stage for Philippine rally racing. The passion for speed, skill, and adventure remains alive, ensuring that the sport continues to grow for years to come.

2025-03-24T18:43:04Z