Catarman, Northern Samar, Philippines (26 May 2025) – Northern Samar is set to host the Ibabao Festival 2025 Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race this Sunday, June 1, 2025, as part of the province’s vibrant Ibabao Festival celebrations.
In celebration of the 60th founding anniversary of the Province of Northern Samar, 60 athletes will take on the challenge of the Ibabao Triathlon as a highlight of the province’s month- long anniversary celebration. This symbolic race honors both the enduring strength of the Ibabaoan spirit and the evolving future of Northern Samar.
The course features a 1.5-kilometer swim in the calm eastern waters of Catarman, followed by a 40- kilometer bike ride through scenic coastal roads and festive towns, and a 10-kilometer run, showcasing the province’s natural beauty and vibrant community spirit.
Participants include a lineup of some of the country’s most decorated age group athletes and triathlon community leaders:
• Robert Jonah Rivera – 100+ triathlon finishes, Kona and IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship finisher
• Mervin Santiago – Top age grouper and first Filipino finisher at the IRONMAN World Championship in Nice
• Ronald Molit – Coach and IRONMAN World Champs Kona finisher, multiple IRONMAN 70.3 podiums
• Maryfel Aumentado – Among the pioneering Filipinas to finish the IRONMAN World Championship in Nice
• Junrox Roque – GoClark Duathlete of the Year 2023
• Chang Hitalia – 25-time IRONMAN 70.3 finisher, 8-time IRONMAN finisher including Kona, and Boston Marathon finisher; representing Century Tri
• Joffrey Ano – Longtime leader of CamSur Tri and age group standout with consistent podium finishes in local multisport races
• National Athletes Erika Nicole Burgos, Gene Heart Quiambao, Bea Marie Quiambao
• Go for Gold Development Team including John Patric Ciron, Sam Corpuz, Jan Javier, James Van Ramona, and Raymund Torio.
They will race alongside other members of the Philippine national triathlon team, IRONMAN World Championship finishers, and athletes representing triathlon clubs such as CamSur Tri, Fit PH, Go for
Gold, Baguio Benguet Tri, Rockstar Tri, Santé Barley, and Century Tri, as well as individual racers from Northern Samar and across the country.
A side event, the Ibabao Festival Sunrise Run, will also be held for invited community runners and guests, offering a non-competitive but equally memorable experience through the heart of the festival grounds.
Now on its third year, the Ibabao Festival, a brainchild of Governor Edwin Ongchuan, continues to captivate visitors with its colorful heritage showcases, scenic vistas, and a community spirit that keeps guests coming back for more.
“This race is more than a test of endurance. It’s an invitation to connect with the heart of Northern Samar. From the stunning race course to the cheers of the local communities, we want our athletes to feel the unique warmth and pride that make this province unforgettable. Together with the Ibabao Festival, we’re creating moments that go beyond the finish line,” added Ms. Princess Galura, President and Managing Director of Sunrise Events, the Provincial Government’s partner and chief organizer of the Ibabao Festival Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race.
The Ibabao Festival 2025 Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race is staged in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Northern Samar, local government units, and event partners, highlighting the province’s commitment to sports tourism and cultural pride.
For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact:
Sai Mayol Marketing & Media
SUNRISE EVENTS INC.
sai.mayol@sunriseevents.com.ph
