The Philippine Star
February 24, 2026 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — Citing numerous traffic violations and accidents involving its participants, Sen. Raffy Tulfo expressed strong dismay over the BOSS Ironman Endurance Challenge.
During the Senate committee on tourism hearing yesterday, Tulfo presented videos allegedly showing riders blatantly violating traffic laws, including running red lights, counterflowing and engaging in acts that endangered other motorists and pedestrians.
“I’m sick and tired because poor tricycle drivers who make a living on the road come to me complaining when they are apprehended and ticketed for beating the red light, while these participants blatantly disrespect traffic laws. Just because you’re BOSS Ironman, does that mean you’re exempt from tickets? You shouldn’t be,” he said.
The senator questioned whether event organizers conduct proper skills assessments to ensure that participants are qualified and knowledgeable about traffic rules and motorcycle safety.
While expressing support for motorcycle tourism and its potential to boost local economies and promote local products, Tulfo stressed that no advocacy should come at the expense of human lives.
“I have no problem if motorcycling helps boost our tourism and if you help others, even if the charity you give is just small change. But the problem is that many have already died, been injured and caused inconvenience on the road,” the senator said.
Tulfo clarified that endurance rides are acceptable, but noted reports alleging that the event is being conducted as a race. He also cited information that betting allegedly occurs during the ride, with some politicians purportedly involved.
He emphasized that racing should be held in proper venues, away from public roads and pedestrians, with safety as the top priority.
Data from the Tourism Promotions Board showed that 93 motorcycle tourism events generated P1.9 billion in revenue, underscoring the need for organizers to strengthen safety policies to prevent further tragedies.
Tulfo also questioned why the BOSS Ironman event was still allowed to proceed despite a congressional hearing on similar concerns in 2024.
He said he would oppose its continuation unless organizers implement strict mechanisms to ensure rider and public safety, vowing to exhaust all legal remedies to halt the event if necessary.
“I will not allow you. I’ll do everything in my power, legally – through the LTO, PNP-HPG and DOTr – to stop you unless you can present very solid guidelines or a program that will ensure no more accidents happen,” Tulfo said.
He also cast doubt on the group’s charitable activities, noting that despite reportedly earning millions from the event, organizers allegedly distribute only minimal assistance.
He cited an endurance challenge that supposedly generated around P15 million, suggesting that the charity component may serve as a front for commercial interests.
