PHRX, PNRC to have an 'expanded calendar' for 2025

MANILA: An expanded calendar awaits participants of this year’s Philippine Rallycross Series (PHRX) and the Philippine National Rally Championship (PNRC).

According to organizers Olson Camacho and Ronaldo Trinidad, the expanded calendar is expected to grow the aforementioned discipline’s fanbase by bringing it to more regions in the country.

Such a move, they said, will also give new and seasoned drivers more competition grounds.

Set to build upon the success it enjoyed last year, the seven-round rallycross series — which will still be held at Arden Botanical Garden in Trece Martires, Cavite — shall have longer and more complex rally stages.

On the other hand, the PNRC will now have four legs to be held at the following locations

• Nueva Ecija (first two legs)
• Lubang Island, Occidental Mindoro
• Cavite

To note, the 2025 PNRC’s opener is set on March 22.

Now in its 10th year, the PHRX and PNRC continue their mission to revive rally racing in the Philippines, a sport that flourished in the 1970s and 1980s.

“Unlike circuit racing, where drivers compete on smooth, controlled tracks, rally driving takes place on gravel, mud, dirt, and tarmac, making it one of the most dynamic and unpredictable motorsports,” Camacho noted.

He emphasized that the combination of speed, technical driving, and teamwork between the driver and co-driver makes rally racing a true test of skill and endurance.

Driver Training program

Aside from that, organizers will offer driver training programs concentrating on rally driving fundamentals, car control, pace notes, and navigation techniques.

Such an initiative is aimed at hone talents in a safe and structured environment.

With the expansion of race venues, more competitive rounds, and structured driver training programs, the PHRX and PNRC are confident that rally racing in the Philippines will continue to grow.

Further, the events’ organizers also expressed their gratitude to the Automobile Association Philippines in helping them ensure that their events meet international safety and competition standards.

“Their continued involvement reassures both new and experienced competitors that they are racing in a well-regulated and professionally managed championship,” Camacho added.

Organizers honor events’ division winners

Recently, organizers of the PHRX and PNRC conducted an awarding ceremony — honoring the top finishers in each category.

The winners in the event are as follows:

• Group 1: First – Caloy Calica | Second – Ricxie Dela Cruz | Third – Rolando Tecson
• Group 2: First – Louie Camacho | Second – Paul Santos | Third – Peewee Mendiola
• Group 3: First – Louie Camacho | Second – Paul Santos | Third – Ricardo Dy-Liacco
• Group 4: First – Paul Santos | Second – Ricardo Dy-Liacco | Third – Peewee Mendiola
• Open Class: First – Mike Reyes | Second – Paolo Santos | Third – Ricardo Dy-Liacco
• AWD Class: First – Mike Reyes | Second – Paolo Santos | Third – Ralph Ramento
• UV Class: First – Louie Camacho | Second – DJ De Guzman | Third – Aven Tongo
• RWD Class: First – EZ Ligaya | Second – Devor Andres | Third – Jun Magno
• Pickup Class: First – Louie Camacho | Second – Aven Tongo | Third – Boboy Rabe
• Novice Class: First – Ricardo Dy-Liacco | Second – Aven Tongo | Third – Ricxie Dela Cruz
• Ladies Class: First – Gabie Desales | Second – Pauline Bautista | Third – Hazel Ramirez

 Also read:

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PHRX gets boost from AAP to further promote rallying

Isuzu PH renews partnership with Philippine Rallycross Series for 2024