“We have prepared a couple of exciting motorsport events for everyone and I am proud to announce that we are going to put the Philippines back on the world map of Motorsport. Together with our sponsors, we have found a home of motorsport in the biggest integrated resort casino in the country, Okada Manila, together with the Paranaque LGU and all our sponsors. I remember announcing way back in 2023 that we are going to wake up a sleeping giant. Now, that giant is awake, gising na gising siya, gutom na gutom, at uhaw na uhaw. And we are preparing for it. The first event will be on May 4, followed by a series of events until June. We are here as proud producers coming from the industry of automotive, motorsport and entertainment. Gusto nating ibalik ang mga karera in the heart of Metro Manila,” Jomari Yllana’s welcoming speech at the Motorsport Carnivale 2025 media conference.
“It took us one year, for those who don’t remember, in August 2023, we launched Motorsport Carnivale. We took a one-year hiatus and now we’re back. We spent 12 months figuring out how we can maximize our resources and thankfully, Okada Manila continues to be quite receptive. Which brings me to the exciting part – we’re going to have at least three different weekends, this weekend May 4 for Super Sprint, May 31st for Jom’s Cup and June 21st and 22nd for the ceremonial flag of the AAP Rally of Lubang. And the following day, we’re going to be treated with a spectacle of having children ages 5 to 13, in a Carting Slalom clinic and competition,” Rikki Dy-Liacco, the Head of Motorsports at the Automobile Association Philippines.
Yllana Racing, in partnership with Okada Manila, brings back one of the country’s most anticipated racing events with the Okada Manila Motorsport Carnivale 2025, opening on May 4 in Parañaque City.
Set against the iconic backdrop of the Philippines’ premier integrated resort—and with racing action extending to the Boardwalk and Gardens, the seaside area just outside Okada Manila—this year’s edition promises more power, prestige, and passion as it revs up for a thrilling celebration of Filipino car culture.
What’s new in this edition of Okada Manila Motorsport Carnivale?
“I remember 2023, we developed events for the whole week. Now, we added special events, it took a while sa part ng creatives. We’re focusing on the basics: 1. We’re giving back to the kids. Racers, aspirants. 2. The amateur level provided by the Super Sprint. This is the modern-day slalom racing. 3. Jom’s Cup and 4. The full-blown race – the rally of Lubang and the rally of Paranaque. We have formulated the events for summer, rainy season and we end it with the awarding this November,” Jomari answers.
The action starts early with a Super Sprint from 6 AM to 6 PM, followed by the much-awaited Grand Car Meet: Legends of the ’90s at 7 PM. This event promises high-speed thrills and nostalgic charm for car enthusiasts and families alike.
The festival is once again spearheaded by Jomari Yllana, president of Yllana Racing and a long-time motorsport advocate.
“In partnership with Okada Manila, our major presenter, we’re proud to bring back this celebration of speed, style, and Filipino pride,” said Yllana. “We want to rally every racing enthusiast, family, and fan into one inclusive and passionate motorsport community.”
More Races, More Excitement
Racing continues on May 31 with Jom’s Cup, a 1/8-mile drag racing challenge to be held at the Boardwalk and Gardens of Okada Manila. Expect intense competition across the Super Car, Muscle Car, and Vintage Car categories.
During intermissions, a special EV car showcase with guest celebrities will be held, adding a modern, sustainable twist to the day’s events. Other major motorsport events will be announced soon.
The 2025 series builds on the overwhelming success of Motorsport Carnivale 2023, which drew an impressive 2,400 vehicles and attracted thousands of spectators to Okada Manila. The event was widely praised as the largest motorsport gathering in the country in recent years, proving that Filipino car culture is alive and thriving.
“We have awakened a sleeping giant,” Yllana shared. “Through this event, we were reminded of the passion that fuels our local motorsport scene—and we’re just getting started.”
Motorsport Carnivale is inspired by the glory days of Philippine motorsports, including the Philippine Grand Prix held in Manila from 1973 to 1976, a series known for its prestige and grandeur. Yllana hopes to rekindle that same spirit today, especially among younger audiences and new fans.
Powering Philippine Motorsports
Motorsport Carnivale 2025 is co-led by Rikki Dy-Liacco, a respected champion racer and Head of Motorsports at the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), the country’s official representative to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
Dy-Liacco brings international racing standards and experience, having served as race steward at elite global events including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, GT World Challenge Asia, Formula 4 Middle East, and the Macau Grand Prix.
“We’re raising the bar and bringing Philippine motorsports closer to international levels,” said Dy-Liacco.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting local partners in creating diverse tourism experiences within Entertainment City,” said Byron Yip, Okada Manila President and COO. “Motorsport Carnivale adds a dynamic and family-friendly dimension to the vibrant range of activities we offer, celebrating automotive culture, community, and local talent.”
Yllana himself is no stranger to the sport—he has won and placed in several local races and was the first Filipino podium finisher at the Yeongam International Circuit in South Korea in 2014. He continues to race as the principal driver of pro team Yllana Racing.
With its unique blend of adrenaline, nostalgia, and premium entertainment, Okada Manila Motorsport Carnivale 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark experience for families, fans, and future racers.
Watch our coverage of the media conference below:
HYPE MANIA 