Almost a year ago, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) launched the ‘Motourismo’ campaign to encourage motorcycle travel in the county, in hopes of boosting the tourism industry and helping local economies recover from the effects of the pandemic.

Back then, the quarantine restrictions were being relaxed in many areas, so the board, along with motorcycle groups supporting the program, was optimistic that it will gain traction very soon.

Unfortunately, a few months later, the campaign hit a snag. The spike in COVID-19 cases prompted organizers to temporarily shelve the program due to strict quarantine rules that prohibit motorcycle travel.

With the local health situation slightly improving, the government is slowly opening the economy. On Nov. 19, 2021, the TPB will launch Motourismo with a new name: Philippine Motorcycle Tourism (PMT). We actually consider it a relaunch since the campaign involves the same players, but with a bigger goal this time around.

“We are pushing our boundaries to come up with even more safe and creative ways to set the tourism industry and all those who depend on its path to recovery,” says TPB chief operating officer Antonette Velasco-Allones. “PMT showcases the interesting culture and heritage sites, shops, restaurants, and other tourism products all over the that Filipinos can discover themselves on two-wheels.”

Just like last year, the board will hold a webinar on the day of the launch, as part of the PMT kick-off ceremonies. The undertaking aims to convince motorcycle groups, communities, and influencers to promote the country as a safe and fun riding destination.

Road safety advocates and riding experts will discuss defensive driving and group riding etiquette, among other topics.

Another important event is the PMT Ride and Tours, which is slated on November 20 and 21. It is expected to draw around 250 riders, who will travel approximately 900kms across Manila, Rizal, Laguna, Quezon, Batangas, and Cavite.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region is currently spearheading The Motorbike Tour pre-launch event in Nueva Ecija and Tarlac. Norminring Motorbikes, for its part, will lead a similar activity in Mindanao from November 5 to 12.

“We are hopeful that through these activities, we will rebuild the confidence of the traveling public to travel domestically and, eventually, for the tourism industry to bounce back from the negative impact of the pandemic crisis,” adds Alones.