Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito on Tuesday, March 26 lamented the tragic passing of a woman during the endurance ride dubbed Bohol Loop 2024 in the province of Bohol on Saturday morning, March 23 in Sikatuna town.

Ejercito said he is deeply saddened by the death of Ana Marie Tasic, a motorist who died after her motorcycle collided with another motorcycle driven by a participant of the Bohol Loop 2024.

“Life is priceless and her loss is truly heartbreaking. My heartfelt sympathies go out to her family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Ejercito said in a statement.

“It's important to acknowledge the efforts made by the organizers and local government units to ensure the safety of participants as well as the non-participants, emphasizing that the event was not intended as a race,” he added.

“However, it's challenging to oversee every individual's actions, and unfortunately, accidents can still occur despite precautions,” said Ejercito, also a self-confessed motorcycle enthusiast.

The incident has forced organizers of the event, particularly the Philippine Motorcycle Tourism, to cease the program in Bohol.

“Our mission at Philippine Motorcycle Tourism, in partnership with the Department of Tourism through the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines, is to showcase the beauty of Bohol through moto-tourism events such as the Bohol Loop,” Ejercito said.

“Additionally, we aim to amplify the excitement and joy that celebrity participants bring to the spectators who line the streets and are eager to catch a glimpse of them,” he added.

“We acknowledge the gravity of recent events and are committed to improving safety measures for all future endeavors,” he further said.

According to the provincial government of Bohol, officials are now reviewing existing policies for similar events “with the end goal of making safety and security priority for our people and our guests.”