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From its celebrated “Great Revival” to this year’s theme, “A Heritage in Motion,” the MPTC Tour of Luzon continued its resurgence as Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio praised the overwhelming success of the 2026 edition, highlighted by a thrilling finale in Baguio City, the country’s Summer Capital.
For the second straight year, the prestigious cycling race concluded in Baguio City, drawing massive crowds and turning the popular mountain city into the centerpiece of Philippine cycling.
“Maraming salamat sa mga taga-Baguio. Second year in a row na dito natapos sa Baguio ang Tour of Luzon,” said Gregorio during the closing ceremonies.
The PSC chief also revealed that Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong hopes to keep Baguio as the permanent final stage venue moving forward.
“In the third year in 2027, ang hiling ni Mayor Benjie, wag alisin yung ending ng Tour of Luzon sa Baguio. Dahil yun talaga ang showcase,” he added.
The 14-stage race began in Calatagan last April 29 and stretched more than 1,800 kilometers across multiple provinces and regions before culminating at the uphill finish in Baguio.
Gregorio emphasized how the Tour has grown significantly compared to its revival edition last year, noting the surge of spectators lining the roads from start to finish.
“But it’s been a very successful 14 stages that started in Calatagan, Batangas last April 29. 1,800 kilometers. World-class riders. It’s how it should be,” Gregorio said.
He also pointed out the increase in fan support, saying the race has regained its place in the hearts of Filipinos after years of absence from the sporting calendar.
“And we already realized the big difference from last year’s Tour of Luzon revival. Marami pang tao, nakalimutan na yung Tour of Luzon.
Although napakaraming tao last year, siguro ito times four or five times. Talagang grabe, pati mga walkways at kalye punong-puno,” he said.
The successful staging of the Tour once again showcased the country’s passion for cycling, with elite international riders battling through grueling mountain climbs, long sprint stages.
Meanwhile, Nikita Shulchenko emerged as the biggest winner of the MPTC Tour of Luzon after capturing the Individual General Classification title and claiming the ?1 million grand prize.
Antoine Huby dominated the mountain stages to secure the Eagle of the Mountain, also known as the King of the Mountain crown, earning P350,000. The French rider likewise ruled the Individual Points Classification to pocket an additional ?300,000.
Ibrahiem Alrefai was recognized as the Best Young Rider and received, 200,000 for his impressive performance throughout the multi-stage race.
Defending champion Joo Dae-yeong also took home P200,000 after another strong campaign in the country’s premier cycling event.