Ronald Oranza, Jude Gabriel Francisco and Filipino-American Mary Joyce Monton asserted their dominance in the criterium races that opened the PhilCycling National Championships for Road 2026 on Monday, February 23, in Tagaytay City.

Oranza powered his way to the Men Elite crown, while Francisco ruled the Men Under-23 class. Monton, racing out of Los Angeles, proved strongest in the Women Elite division of the meet organized by PhilCycling under Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

Edson Corbadora and Ronnilan Quita joined Oranza on the Men Elite podium of the race contested over a 2.2-kilometer circuit that started and finished at the Praying Hands Monument in Tagaytay City.

strong rides highlight elite and under-23 divisions

Marvin Mandac and Mark Alex Baruelo secured the top two spots in the Under-23 race behind Francisco’s winning ride.

In the Women Elite event, national team regulars Maritoni Krog and Phoebe Salazar settled for second and third, respectively, behind Monton.

The championships are presented by Standard Insurance, MVP Sports Foundation and the Philippine Sports Commission with support from Tagaytay City Mayor Brent Tolentino and the Tagaytay CT Velodrome.

youth standouts shine in opening day

Rayven Joy Valdez, Althea Campana and Angeline Elvira dominated the Women’s Under-23 race, continuing a strong showing for the younger field.

In the junior ranks, CJ Cabreros, Kylle Flores and Piolo Calimlim completed the Men’s podium, while Maria Louisse Criselle Alejado, Althea Nicole Coronado and Eloiza Pajarito ruled the Women’s side.

The Youth categories also produced multiple winners. In the Men 12-13 division, Mark Terrence Orcino finished ahead of Ren Axcel Pecson and Johnzoe Canasa.

Allaeza Mae Gulmatico led the Women 14-15 podium followed by Alessandra Nicole Paras and Princess Jaydee Pancho. In the Men 14-15 class, Jannshen Sta. Juana beat Jyohan Toledo and Louie Jerome Murillo.

Action continues with the Individual Time Trial and Individual Road Race events scheduled from Tuesday through Friday.