KORONADAL City Mayor Peter B. Miguel is embarking on another mission, this time breaking not only one Guinness world record but three.
In what could be a fitting highlight to the 23rd National Federation of Motorcycle Clubs Annual Convention, Miguel hopes to gather the biggest motorcycle enthusiasts, including the “big bikers,” in the weeklong event starting on April 22.
“Isa ‘yan sa mabigat na gagawin namin during the event, we’ll try to break the Guinness World Record,” said Miguel in a recent press conference at the Ropali Classics in Pasig City.
“The current Guinness World Record holder is India – about 1,700 riders. We’re looking at some 2,500 riders. A few years ago we saw some 1,400 riders gather at the Mall of Asia.”
They hope to establish the new Guinness records — largest parade of motorcycles, most engines started simultaneously and most motorcycle horns sounded simultaneously — on April 29 in the event backed by the Department of Tourism, Petron, BMW, Ducati, Kawasaki, Suzuki and KTM.
“The parameters set by Guinness World Record ay medyo mabusisi, pero kami ay ready,” added Miguel, who is also the president of the Federation of Motorcycle Clubs of the Philippines, Inc.
In line with President Duterte’s call to boost Mindanao’s sports and eco-tourism, Miguel promised to give his level best to make the event very memorable and colorful.
“We in Koronadal City are not selfish, so we want to show the culture and landmarks of other towns and let the participants experience the hospitalities of other mayors of South Cotabato. They are now all excited,” said Miguel.
Miguel said theme “Ride for Culture, Ride for Peace” is the answer to Duterte’s call to advertise Mindanao as a safe place and a haven for tourists.
If not busy, Miguel said President Duterte may visit Koronadal City being a “big bike” fanatic.
Boxing hero, Sen. Manny Pacquiao, who is from General Santos City, is likewise expected to join thousands of riders from different regions as organizers already set entry points in various places in Mindanao.
Miguel, who belongs to the motorcycle group called T-Nalak Riders, said it is too early to tell how many riders would converge in the event, but he is expecting some 100 motorcycle clubs from all over the country.
Also the city has already made proper coordination with the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army to ensure the safety of the participants, sponsors and as wells the spectators.
A motorcycle trade fair and show, lectures for riders, safety seminar and a Driver’s Congress are also lined up.
“Handang handa na kami for this event. We coordinated with the different departments. The object is not only camaraderie but also the safety information about bike,and motorcycle,” said Miguel.
“Dapat lahat marunong sa kalsada, matuto ng riding skills so that we can lessen accidents. Isa yan sa advocacy namin,” added Miguel.