TACLOBAN CITY — More than 700 motorcycle enthusiasts from different parts of the country explored the scenic and cultural attractions of Eastern Visayas during the three-day Philippine Motorcycle Tourism Samar-Leyte Loop, an initiative aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and responsible motorcycle travel.
Held from June 26 to 28, the event was organized by Loop PH in partnership with the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) under the Department of Tourism (DOT). The activity featured guided rides showcasing some of Leyte and Samar’s top tourist destinations while advocating safe riding, road discipline, and cultural appreciation.
The ride officially began on June 27, with participants departing from the Boy Scout Monument in Palo, Leyte, at 5 a.m. for the Leyte Circuit. The route included stops at Carigara Baywalk, Palompon Freedom Park, Sal’s Pineapple Plantation in Ormoc City, the Binaybayon Convention Center, Lintaon Peak or 16,000 Blossoms in Baybay City, Inopacan Baywalk, and the iconic Agas-Agas Bridge in Sogod, Southern Leyte, before returning to the MacArthur Leyte Landing Memorial National Park in Palo.
On the second day, riders crossed the San Juanico Bridge to Samar, visiting the Ulot River Torpedo Extreme Boat Ride in Paranas, the “I Love Borongan” Monument in Borongan City, Canhugas Nature Park in Hernani, and the Historic Balangiga Bells in Eastern Samar before returning to Palo for the awarding of finisher kits.
Beyond visiting tourist attractions, participants also sampled local delicacies and regional cuisine in every province they passed through, giving local food producers and tourism enterprises additional exposure.
According to organizers, the Leyte-Samar Loop forms part of Loop PH’s nationwide moto-tourism campaign, which encourages leisure riding, navigation, endurance, and cultural immersion rather than speed-based competition.
The Ride. Tour. Explore. program features curated motorcycle routes across the Philippines, including regional circuits and the Full Philippine Loop, covering approximately 45 provinces, 65 cities, and 16 regions.
Organizers said the event seeks to boost domestic tourism, generate economic opportunities for local communities, and promote road safety while showcasing the natural beauty, heritage, and hospitality of the country’s destinations.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
