By Jean Malanum
MANILA – Some of the country’s most decorated multisport warriors, led by Mervin Santiago, will join the Ibabao Festival 2025 Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race in Catarman, Northern Samar on Sunday.
Santiago, the first Filipino to cross the finish line at the 2023 IRONMAN World Championship in Nice, France, headlines a powerhouse lineup that includes Kona and IRONMAN 70.3 World finisher Robert Rivera, multi-podium finisher and coach Ronald Molit, and Maryfel Aumentado.
Also joining the race are 2023 GoClark Duathlete of the Year Junrox Roque, 25-time IRONMAN 70.3 finisher Chang Hitalia (also an eight-time full IRONMAN and Boston Marathon qualifier), and national athletes Erika Burgos, Gene Heart Quiambao, and Bea Quiambao.
Other participants are the Go for Gold Development Team, including John Patric Ciron, Sam Corpuz, Jan Javier, James Van Ramona, and Raymund Torio, plus contingents from CamSur Tri, Fit PH, Baguio-Benguet Tri, Rockstar Tri, Santé Barley, Century Tri, and Northern Samar’s up-and-coming talents.
“This race is more than a test of endurance – it’s an invitation to feel the heartbeat of Northern Samar. From the stunning course to the roar of the barangays lining the route, every athlete will carry home a piece of the province’s pride,” said Princess Galura, president and managing director of race organizer Sunrise Events, Inc.
The Ibabao Festival triathlon featuring a 1.5km swim, 40km bike, and 10km run is the centerpiece of Northern Samar’s 60th founding anniversary celebration.
Now in its third year, the Ibabao Festival was conceived by Governor Edwin Ongchuan as a living gallery of the province’s history, handicrafts, and natural wonders. Throughout June, visitors can expect cultural nights, agri-trade fairs, and eco-tours. (PNA)
