KORONADAL CITY, SOUTH COTABATO —Around 200 motocross racers, including top national riders, are expected to compete in the T’nalak Festival 2026 Motocross Competition set on July 11 to 12 in the municipality of Tantangan.
The high-octane sporting event is touted as one of the major highlights of South Cotabato’s dual milestone celebration—the 60th Foundation Anniversary and the 27th T’nalak Festival.
Engr. Zaldy Quines, one of the primary event organizers, confirmed that 10 elite national riders have already secured their slots in the competition.
“We are expecting a massive turnout this year. The track in Tantangan is ready, and the level of competition will be exceptionally high given the presence of our national athletes,” Quines said in an interview.
With the track drawing elite talent, Quines expressed optimism that the total number of participants could surpass the 200-rider mark as local and regional racers rush to beat the final registration deadline.
Among the prominent names already locked into the roster are the celebrated sibling duo, Michelin and Michael Rivera of General Santos City, along with standout riders Ryry Baidid, Botchokoy Planas of Digos City, and Anthony Cortez of Kiblawan.
Breaking barriers in the male-dominated extreme sport, the national lineup also features two female riders. Among them is 12-year-old prodigy Zyra Paco, whose participation is expected to draw significant interest from young sports enthusiasts across the region.
The two-day adrenaline-fueled spectacle will feature 11 competitive categories designed to accommodate various age groups, skill levels, and engine displacements.
To further intensify the competition, organizers announced that cash prizes and official festival medals will be awarded to the top four finishers in each category.
The event forms part of the broader provincial initiative under Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. to position the annual T’nalak Festival as a premier sports tourism destination in Mindanao, providing accessible entertainment for residents while stimulating the local economy of host municipalities such as Tantangan.
