Puerto Galera celebrates its 95th founding anniversary; tipped to be the country‘s next‘motourism’destination

MORE than 500 motorcycle riders from different parts of the country had their routes set to the island of Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro to participate in the 4th Mangyan Motorcycle Endurance Challenge (MMEC) held on the night of December 9.

The MMEC was one of the highlights of the 95th founding anniversary celebration of Puerto Galera. The event tested the endurance and passion of motorcycle riders through a 1,000-kilometer motorcycle ride that took off from the newly-developed Sabang Baywalk located in the town of Sabang. Despite the sudden downpour, motorcycle riders pursued to finish the loop ride.

According to Puerto Galera Mayor Rocky Ilagan, the MMEC aims to introduce the island to motorcycle groups as one of the best destinations for motorcycle tourism or “Motourism.” With its beautiful landscapes and safe roads, Ilagan stressed that Puerto Galera is the perfect place for tourists, especially motorcycle riders to practice their passion while enjoying the picturesque view of the island.

Ilagan also hopes that this year’s MMEC participants can help promote Puerto Galera through their various social media platforms. The local chief executive admitted that tourism activities in Puerto Galera still need boosting in order to return to normalcy after the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, MMEC participants said that aside from testing their capacity as motorcycle riders, they joined the activity to help promote different tourist destinations in Puerto Galera, specifically its crystal clear waters and impressive mountain range.

Aside from the MMEC, various activities were also held to commemorate the founding anniversary of Puerto Galera, such as a fluvial parade and several competitions that showcased the talents of its residents. Puerto Galera was once hailed as one of the best islands in the world by several international travel websites.