THE PHILIPPINE RALLYCROSS Series (PHRX) and the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) recently held the Kagitingan Rally of Capas, in collaboration with the local government of Capas, Tarlac. The dirt rally featured 11 special stages covering 50 kilometers along the municipality’s inner dirt roads. Including transport stages, the rally’s total distance was 130 kilometers. The event kicked off last April 27 at the Capas Municipal Hall. Before that, a ceremonial flag-off event took place at Estancia Mall of Capitol Commons in Pasig City the week prior — presided over by AAP President Augustus “Joe” Ferreria, AAP Motorsport Committee Chairman Mandy Eduque, and PHRX Directors Olson Camacho and Ronnie Trinidad.
This event not only promoted rally motorsport to the public but also allowed mallgoers to get up close to the rally cars. Additionally, it served as the scrutineering process for all competing rally cars, ensuring they met the safety requirements, including the presence of safety roll cages.
Meanwhile, in another collaboration of the PHRX and AAP, the Jun Espino Memorial Rallycross was organized. This special event, held at the CCP Open Grounds last April 6, coincided with the 2024 edition of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), showcasing the vibrancy of rally racing in the country. Reflecting on the event, AAP Motorsport Manager Rikki Dy-Liacco expressed his excitement at the revival of rallycross racing at the familiar CCP Open Grounds.
Mr. Camacho paid tribute to the late Jun Espino, acknowledging his pivotal role in revitalizing rally racing in the Philippines. Mr. Espino, a legendary rally navigator during the ’70s and ’80s, not only excelled in local rallies but also represented the country in international competitions. The Jun Espino Memorial Rallycross, doubling as the fourth round of the PHRX 2024 season, drew 65 entries across various race classes, with a significant turnout of race fans, many of who attended MIAS. Notable figures from the local automotive industry, including AAP’s Mr. Ferreria, Mr. Eduque, and Isuzu Philippines Corp. Assistant Division Head Marketing Robert Carlos, were present to ceremonially flag off the special round.
The Kagitingan Rally of Capas was made possible by the Capas local government, Isuzu Philippines Corp., Autoplus Sports, Ravenol Motor Oils, CleanFuel, Aguila Auto Glass, Method Race Wheels, AC Delco, CDS Offroad Playground, and Arden Botanical Estate.
