BAGUIO CITY — The Sang-atan Baguio Bike Festival concluded on July 2, 2023, with an exhilarating Criterium Race that showcased the skills and passion of Baguio’s finest cyclists, including Mayor Benjamin Magalong and photographer Neil Clark Ongchangco.

The Criterium Race, one of the festival’s highly anticipated activities, took place on the festival’s final day.

Cyclists embarked on a challenging route consisting of 16 laps, commencing from Lake Drive and extending to Melvin Jones before returning to the starting point.

The race witnessed a total of 14 waves, encompassing diverse age brackets and bike categories, with the participation of public servants, including Mayor Magalong, infusing the event with an intensified competitive spirit.

Mayor Magalong, a staunch advocate for cycling and a symbol of active leadership, demonstrated exceptional skills, determination, and passion throughout the race.

His exemplary performance, coupled with the efforts of his Baguio Bicycle Movement team members, Allan Abayao, Neil Clark Ongchangco, Eugene Valbuena, and Prudencio Miranda, resulted in a remarkable accomplishment – securing an impressive 2nd place finish.

Recognizing their outstanding achievement and contributions to the sport, the City Government of Baguio bestowed special recognition upon Mayor Magalong and his team.

They were lauded for their dedication to cycling and for exemplifying the values of perseverance and sportsmanship.

In a moment of pride, Mayor Magalong was also honored with the esteemed “Siklistang Mayor” award.

This prestigious accolade acknowledges his significant efforts in promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation and a means to foster a healthier lifestyle within Baguio City.

Mayor Magalong’s unwavering dedication to fostering a bicycle-friendly environment has served as a profound inspiration for individuals, encouraging them to wholeheartedly embrace cycling as a practical and enjoyable choice for both commuting and recreational purposes.

The Sang-atan Baguio Bike Festival spanned from June 30 to July 2, 2023, providing a platform for cyclists to come together and celebrate their shared passion for the sport.

The festival not only showcased the skills of local cyclists but also served as an opportunity to encourage community engagement and raise awareness about the benefits of cycling.

As the festival concluded, participants and attendees expressed their appreciation to the organizers for their efforts in orchestrating a successful and memorable event.