PHLOX2024: Navigating Uncharted Waters with a Bond of Camaraderie.

By motoph admin on March 12, 2024

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On February 21, 2024, the rugged terrain of the Philippines became a battleground for 14 competitive teams as they commenced the Petron Philippine Overland Expedition 2024 (PHLOX). The first day witnessed these teams engaging in four timed stages, meticulously crafted to push their technical driving and recovery prowess to the limit. Following a brief interlude, the challenge continued on February 22 at Submarine Bay, Masanga Point in General Nakar, Quezon, where three natural track segments awaited the competitors.

Upon conquering the Day 2 hurdles, the teams were granted the green light, alongside a 40-hour timeframe, to traverse the jungles of General Nakar from Masanga Point to Dingalan, Aurora, spanning approximately 50 kilometers.

*Competitors had to complete seven timed stages in preparation for the 40hour challenge.*

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The victors of this daunting trial emerged swiftly, with Team Siga 4×4 from Nueva Ecija leading the pack, trailed by Team Ironman Pampanga and the Binangonan Eagles Off-road Team. As daylight waned on February 23 and dawn approached on the 24th, participants steadily emerged from the jungle, although unfortunate vehicle damages hindered four teams from completing the crossing within the allotted time.

The competition culminated with the final three timed stages in Dingalan, Aurora on February 24, set along the riverbed beside the campsite.

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Ultimately, the PHLOX 2024 Champions, Team MYTTires x FredGarage x GibaPH, clinched victory by a narrow margin of 12 points, securing not only the prestigious title but also a cash prize of P500,000. Their stellar performance, led by drivers Jassoren Flores, Kap. Jess Mendoza, and Niko Soria, underscored the significance of teamwork and determination. Following closely behind, Team Ironman Pampanga claimed second place with 958 points, earning a cash reward of P200,000, while Team Siga 4×4 from Nueva Ecija secured third place with 852 points and a cash prize of P100,000.

*Competitors crossing the dreaded mud pit, a waist deep muck that stretches for several meters*.

Beyond the fierce competition, the camaraderie among participants shone brightly, exemplifying the unofficial motto of Filipino off-roaders: “walang iwanan” (no one left behind). Notable acts of sportsmanship included Jassoren “Sonjay” Flores of Team 119 selflessly assisting other teams after completing the crossing and Team GenSan x CDO’s heroic return to aid a stranded participant vehicle encountered on their route back to General Nakar.

As the dust settled and champions were crowned, PHLOX 2024 stood as a testament to the resilience and unity within the Filipino off-road racing community.

*Team Ironman Pampanga takes the second place of the 2024 PHLOX*

The Petron Philippine Overland Expedition, co-organized by Mototesto Overland Equipment and All Traction Performance, received invaluable support from Petron Corporation, Motolite, and technical partner Gears Banawe, the local distributor of ARB 4×4 Accessories, Bushranger, Second Air.