The Tour of Luzon, one of Asia’s most prestigious and historic cycling races, is set to make its highly anticipated return this April 24 to May 1, 2025. Presented by Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) and DuckWorld PH, the eight-stage, 1,050-km event will challenge riders across diverse terrain, from coastal roads to punishing mountain climbs, culminating in Baguio’s Camp John Hay.
MPTC Chairman and CEO Manny V. Pangilinan emphasized the race’s significance in Philippine cycling history, calling it a symbol of endurance, discipline, and determination. The revival aims to elevate local cycling talent while welcoming international competitors.
The event was officially launched in a press conference at the Meralco Lighthouse, attended by Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Richard Bachmann, DuckWorld PH Chairman Patrick Gregorio, and race director Lorenzo Lomibao Jr.
Top Teams and International Participation
A total of 15 teams have expressed interest in competing, including 12 Philippine-based squads and three international teams from Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Among the local teams confirmed are:
- 7Eleven Roadbike Philippines
- Standard Insurance Philippines
- Victoria Cycling Team
- Go For Gold Cycling Team
- Excellent Noodles
- D’ Reyna
- Dandex Multi-Sports
- Local government-backed squads from Iloilo, Nueva Vizcaya, Davao, Cebu, and Tagaytay City
Stage Breakdown: From Laoag to Baguio
The eight-day race will traverse Northern and Central Luzon, featuring high-speed routes, mountain passes, and urban landscapes:
- Stage 1 (April 24): Laoag–Pagudpud–Patapat Viaduct (170km)
- Stage 2 (April 25): Team Time Trial – Laoag to Vigan (80km)
- Stage 3 (April 26): Vigan to Agoo, La Union (170km)
- Stage 4 (April 27): Agoo to Clark, Pampanga (via SCTEX)
- Stage 5 (April 28): Clark New City Circuit (120km)
- Stage 6 (April 29): Clark to Lingayen, Pangasinan (150km)
- Stage 7 (April 30): Individual Time Trial in Lingayen (30km)
- Stage 8 (May 1): Lingayen to Baguio (180km, via Kennon Road)
The race will conclude with a grueling climb to Camp John Hay, a signature challenge that has defined the event since its inception in 1955.
Historic Revival and Future Aspirations
The Tour of Luzon was a dominant force in Asian cycling from 1955 to 1998 and continued as Le Tour de Filipinas until 2020. With its return, Philippine cycling officials hope to unearth new national talents and one day see a Filipino cyclist compete in the Tour de France.
“The Tour of Luzon is a crucial step toward achieving that dream. It’s about breaking barriers and proving that Filipino cyclists can compete on the world stage,” said Pangilinan.
With the backing of PhilCycling, the Philippine National Police, DPWH, Games and Amusements Board, and participating LGUs, the race promises to be a thrilling and monumental comeback for Philippine cycling.
