Motorsport Carnivale 2025 makes roaring return to Okada Manila

Engines roar once more as Okada Manila Motorsport Carnivale 2025 fires up on May 4, marking the grand return of one of the Philippines' most exhilarating festivals.

Spearheaded by Yllana Racing in partnership with Okada Manila, the event promises a celebration of the nation's vibrant automotive culture.

"We have prepared a couple of exciting motorsports events for everyone and I am proud to announce that we are going to put the Philippines back in the world map of motorsports," said Jomari Yllana, president of Yllana Racing in a press conference.

"Together with our major sponsor Okada Manila, we have found a home of motorsport in the biggest integrated resort casino in the country. Together also with the Parañaque LGU and all the sponsors," he added.

Set along the Boardwalk and Gardens of Okada Manila, this year's Carnivale kicks off with a full-day Super Sprint from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., followed by the nostalgic Grand Car Meet: Legends of the '90s at 7 p.m.

Looking back at the festival's 2023 debut — which drew over 2,400 cars and thousands of spectators — Yllana described the movement as nothing short of a reawakening.

"I remember announcing way back in 2023 that we are going to wake up a sleeping giant. Now the giant is awake, hungry and thirsty. We are preparing for it," he said.

He added, "The first event will be on May 4 followed by a series of events from May to June. We are here as proud producers coming from the industries of automotive, motorsport and entertainment. We want to bring back racing to the heart of Metro Manila."

Fans can also look forward to Jom's Cup on May 31, a high-adrenaline 1/8-mile drag race featuring Super Cars, Muscle Cars, and Vintage Cars. In a nod to sustainability and innovation, a celebrity EV car showcase will run during intermissions. The series continues with even more action in June.

"Now, the exciting part is we're going to have at least three different weekends," said Rikki Dy-Liacco, head of Motorsports at the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP).

"For this weekend May 4, it's the Super Sprint, May 31 for Jom's Cup, and June 21 and 22 for the ceremonial flag-off of the inaugural AAP Rally of Lubang Island. The following day, we're going to be treated to a spectacle of having children ages 5 to 13 in a clinic and competition."

Dy-Liacco, who has served as race steward in major international events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the GT World Challenge Asia, emphasized the event's larger goals.

"We are equally excited. It took us one year. For those who remember, it was in August 2023 when we had launched Motorsport Carnivale. We took a hiatus of one year in 2024 and now we are back. We spent 12 months figuring out how we can maximize our resources and thankfully, Okada Manila continues to be receptive," Dy-Liacco noted.

"This continues to be just the beginning of a long-term relationship with Okada Manila and with Philippine Motorsport in general. Jomari and I believe that the timing is right. It's our turn to give back to Philippine motorsports and that is exactly what we're going to be doing," he added.

Okada Manila, a consistent partner in this effort, sees the Carnivale as a key attraction within its entertainment portfolio.

"This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting local partners in creating diverse tourism experiences within Entertainment City. Motorsport Carnivale adds a dynamic and family-friendly dimension to the vibrant range of activities we offer, celebrating automotive culture, community, and local talent," said Byron Yip, president and COO of Okada Manila.

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.

As a racer himself, Yllana brings his own history and passion to the festival. A former podium finisher at South Korea's Yeongam International Circuit, he continues to compete as principal driver of Yllana Racing.

Yllana hopes to rekindle that same spirit today, especially among younger audiences and new fans.

"Through this event, we were reminded of the passion that fuels our local motorsport scene — and we're just getting started," Yllana ended.