02/02/2026
I am not a BOSS Ironman defender nor an apologist, as I am not a member of the organization. I am simply a participant. It so happened that several individuals were offended by the event, with some calling for accountability from the organizers and others even wanting the event to be banned permanently.
Here are some of the issues that were raised, and I will try to address them from my personal point of view.
Q: Why do they race on public roads and not on race tracks?
A: First, BIMC is not a race. It is an endurance ride intended to foster camaraderie among riders and promote local tourism. Second, most of the motorcycles used in endurance rides are not designed for track racing. These are primarily adventure touring, or sport-touring models built for long-distance road use rather than closed-circuit tracks.
Q: If it is not a race, why are they speeding and not following speed limits?
A: Riding large-displacement motorcycles at very low speed limits—such as 60 kph, and even more so at 40 kph or 30 kph—can be difficult and uncomfortable to maintain in an upright and stable manner. These motorcycles are engineered to operate efficiently at higher cruising speeds on open roads.
In practice, certain road users are already given informal exemptions, such as tricycles, bao², and other slow-moving passenger vehicles being allowed on highways, as well as small-displacement riders operating without helmets or side mirrors without consistent enforcement. If such situations persist, it may be reasonable to allow big bikes to travel at a speed that is mechanically comfortable and stable—around 100–120 kph—which, for large motorcycles, is not considered excessive.
Q: Why do they need to use wang-wangs and blinkers?
A: It cannot be denied that some participants use wang-wangs and blinkers; however, these individuals represent less than 10% of the total participants and may be authorized to do so. They could be law enforcement officers or official escorts assigned to provide security for VIPs during the ride.
If we are able to accept the regular use of wang-wangs by barangay emergency vehicles, rescue units, and other LGU-assigned vehicles—even during non-emergency situations—then it may also be reasonable to acknowledge that certain VIPs require similar equipment for security purposes.
Q: Why are they allowed to use blinding auxiliary lights?
A: Auxiliary lights are important for motorcycles to improve visibility, even during daytime, and to warn other road users of an approaching vehicle. Studies have shown that motorcycles are often overlooked on open roads.
The term “blinding” can be subjective. In many cases, the issue may be improper alignment, with the lights pointed directly into the line of sight of other drivers. This can be easily corrected through proper adjustment. What is primarily needed is better information dissemination and guidance for riders on the correct use and alignment of auxiliary lights.
Q: They feel entitled because they can afford big bikes.
A: Big-bike riders are not inherently entitled. In fact, many of them are accomplished and respectable individuals. The perception of entitlement may stem from the size, weight, and performance of their motorcycles, which can appear intimidating to some. However, behind the helmets are often mild-mannered, adventure-seeking individuals who simply share a passion for riding.
Q: They cause accidents involving locals who are simply earning a living.
A: BIMC participants do not want accidents to occur, as they also have families waiting for them and livelihoods to protect. Many of the accidents that happen during such events involve third parties and are often linked to poor road awareness, inadequate training, or lack of proper licensing and vehicle documentation. This highlights the need for better road safety education and stricter enforcement for all road users.
Q: Endurance rides are merely attention-seeking events.
A: That perspective depends on who is speaking. For those who do not understand this kind of passion, it may appear that way. However, endurance rides—rather than races—are held almost every month. BIMC simply receives more attention because of its popularity, the participation of celebrities and public figures, and its exclusivity to big bikes.
End Notes:
Instead of pulling each other down, I believe it is better to lift each other up. In these trying times and amid a shaky political situation, the last thing we need is to let jealousy consume us.
