Mindanao big bike endurance ride results in crashes, public outcry

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The 1,200-kilometer motorcycle ride across Mindanao draws riders from across the country on BMW big bikes, pushing endurance limits on public roads across several regions

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – A child lay motionless on a Bukidnon roadside after a convoy of high-powered motorcycles thundered past, their sirens blaring and blinking lights cutting through the midday traffic. The 2026 BMW Owners Society of Safe Riders (BOSS) Ironman Motorcycle Endurance Challenge turned ordinary Mindanao highways into a scene of chaos.

The event, billed as a 1,200-kilometer motorcycle ride across Mindanao completed within 24 hours, drew riders from across the country on BMW big bikes, pushing endurance limits on public roads across several Mindanao regions from Saturday to Sunday, January 31-February 1.

Henry Tolentino, BOSS president, said the event, which started in General Santos City, aimed to raise funds for the organization’s outreach programs, promote local tourism and camaraderie, and encourage safe riding. He said it was not a race but an endurance ride.

But social media footage showed a different story. Videos and photos show riders beating red lights, speeding recklessly, crashing, and veering off the road, prompting criticism from local officials over the apparent disregard for traffic laws and public safety.

In Kibawe, Bukidnon, a participant died after a crash, and there were other instances when other riders and bystanders sustained injuries.

Kidapawan City Mayor Jose Paolo Evangelista called for a post-event investigation by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Highway Patrol Group. 

“Do not do it in Kidapawan again. We have a speed limit. If you cannot comply, don’t pass here,” he said, criticizing what he described as a “VIP culture” promoted by those who took part in the event.

Lantapan, Bukidnon Mayor Ricky James Balansag said one of the injured victims was a barangay chairman performing official duties, while his wife suffered a fracture and remains hospitalized.

He criticized the organizers for allegedly failing to coordinate with local authorities.

“It must be emphasized that the daily lives of our people do not stop simply because an event is being held. Public roads remain in use by ordinary citizens,” Balansag said. “This event posed a significant risk to public safety… resulting in victims not only in our municipality but also in neighboring towns.”

The private use of sirens and blinkers is restricted by law, which allows only marked emergency vehicles – including police, fire, and medical units – to operate them.

Social media was abuzz with netizens condemning the event, highlighting the dangers of holding high-speed endurance challenges on public highways.

“National highways are not controlled race circuits. They are lifelines used daily by families, workers, students, farmers, public transport drivers, and pedestrians,” said an open letter from a local advocacy group.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the LTO said its Intelligence and Investigation Division has launched preliminary investigations to verify allegations and gather evidence. It said a show cause order would be issued to the event organizers.

LTO chief Markus Lacanilao said, “The heartbreaking footage we saw circulating online is a stark reminder that road safety is non-negotiable – every life on our roads matters, especially the most vulnerable among us like children. Private motor vehicle events must never come at the cost of innocent lives. Under Republic Act No. 4136, organizers have a legal and moral obligation to ensure compliance with traffic laws and prioritize safety for all. We will hold accountable those responsible, and this case sends a clear message: compliance is mandatory, and safety must be at the core of all event planning and execution.” – with reports from Ferdinandh Cabrera, Rappler.com