Motorsport Carnivale organizer Jomari Yllana and AAP head Rikki Dy-Liacco join Okada Manila officials during the official media launch.
Okada Motorsport Carnivale kicks off May 4
THE Okada Manila Motorsport Carnivale 2025 — one of the country’s most- anticipated racing events — finally hit the road on Sunday, May 4 at the Okada Boardwalk and Gardens in Parañaque City.
A project of the Yllana Racing of actor-sportsman Jomari Yllana and Okada Manila, the prestigious event promises more power, more prestige and more passion as it celebrates the Filipinos’ long love affair with car racing.
“We’re proud to bring back this celebration of speed, style and Filipino pride,” said Yllana in an interview during the well-attended media launch at Okada Manila with AAP president Rikki Dy-Liacco and Okada Manila Vice President for Hotel Operations Rob Scott.
“We promise high-speed thrills and nostalgic charm for car enthusiasts and families alike. We want to rally every racing enthusiast, family and fan into one inclusive and passionate motorsport community,” added Yllana, president of Yllana Racing and a long-time motorsports advocate.
Yllana said the race is set against the iconic backdrop of the country’s premier integrated resort — and with racing action extending to the boardwalk and gardens in the seaside area just outside Okada Manila.
The action starts early with the Super Sprint from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., followed by the Grand Car Meet Legends of the 90s at 7 p.m.
Racing continues on May 31 with the Jom’s Cup, an 1/8 -mile drag racing challenge to be held at the boardwalk and gardens of Okada Manila.
“Expect intense competotipn across Super Car, Muscle Car and Vintage Car categories,” added Yllana.
A special EV car showcase with guest celebrities will be held during intermissions, adding a modern and sustainable twist to the day’s events.
Other major motorsport events will be announced soon.
The 2025 series builds on the overwhelming success of the Motorsport Carnivale 2023 which drew an impressive 2,400 vehicles and attracted thousands of spectators to Okada Manila.
Yllana said the 2023 event was largely praised as the largest motorsport gathering in the country in recent years, proving that the Filipino car culture is alive and kicking.
“We have awakened a sleepint 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.
With Okada Manila as his major sponsor, Yllana hopes to rekindle that same spirit today, especially among younger audiences and new fans.
