Rain or shine, the biggest motorsport event to be staged in the Philippines in years roars off Wednesday, August 2, at the gardens behind Okada Manila in Paranaque City.

Motorsport Carnivale 2023 is a five-day sporting event to be highlighted by a Philippine Rallycross Series that is expected to gather over 50 racers en route to Tarlac and back.

Other highlights include: CART, a Car Meet in memory of Eduardo ‘Mang Ed’ del Rosario, founding father of Cavite Auto  Racing Team, estimated to gather collectors of rare racing cars and motorsport gadgets; an Autocross Race, featuring at least 150 cars on Sunday, complete with matching champagne popping.    Awarding ceremonies recognizing past and present heroes in the field of motoring will be held at Okada Manila on August 6.

Okada Manila Motorsport Carnivale 2023 is spearheaded by Paranaque City Councilor Jomari Yllana.

A long-time racing enthusiast, Yllana hopes to bring back the glory days of motorsports in the country – just like the way it enjoyed when the Philippine Grand Prix was being held in Manila from 1973 to 1976.

That series of events came to be known for its prestige and grandeur.

Yllana said he wanted to encourage Filipinos to embrace the rich history of Philippine motorsports by rallying all racing enthusiasts and fanatics into one community.

“We want to encourage audiences, families, to come and watch this event as a fun family festival that they can look forward to every year,” he said.

No stranger to the sport, Yllana has figured prominently in several local races and is the first Filipino podium finisher at the Yeongam International Circuit in South Korea in 2014. He is also the principal driver of pro racing team, Yllana Racing.