2nd Republika Ride draws 1,500 riders to Malolos

In celebration of the 120th foundation of the First Philippine Republic

1,500; that's the number of motorcycle riders, astride their big bikes, that attended the 2^nd Republika Ride on Sunday, February 17 in celebration of the establishment of the First Philippine Republic. The First Philippine republic was founded by the country's first President, Emilio Aguinaldo, in January 21, 1899 in Malolos, Bulacan, 120 years ago. The First Philippine Republic, which is also arguably the first republic in whole Asia, was formally established with the proclamation of the Malolos Constitution on January 21, 1899 and endured until the capture of President Emilio Aguinaldo by the American forces on March 23, 1901, in Palanan, Isabela. The Philippines is currently on its Third Republic.

^{A sea of motorcycles at the Malolos Sports & Convention Center.}

The event was hosted by the City Government of Malolos Bulacan, the Breakfast Ride Community and Petron Corporation, with the goal of showcasing Bulacan as a viable ride destination, for its historical significance, as well as delicacies. 

^{These hungry riders are ready for some 'boodle fight.'}

A big chunk of the participants converged at the Petron NLEX Marilao station as early as 5 am. They then proceeded straight to the Malolos Sports & Convention Center for the event proper by 7:30 am. Being hosted by the Breakfast Ride Community, a sumptuous breakfast awaited riders, composed of a combination of local Bulacan delicacies and sweets to fill their hungry stomachs.

^{Sumptuous breakfast of longganisa, adobo, chicharon, shrimps and salted egg was prepared.}

In true Pinoy style, breakfast was prepared in Boodle Fight fashion, as a fitting tribute to the country's warriors that helped establish the First Philippine Republic. Boodle Fights, after all, were once a Philippine military tradition.

^{Raymon and Malou Gabriel of the Breakfast Ride Community.}

The Breakfast Ride Community, who organized this event, started out in 2016 as an informal riding group fond of Sunday morning breakfast rides. Raymon Gabriel, and his wife, Malou, together with their friends, Fred Penales, Joey Ermita and Bong Paguia, came up with the idea of putting up organized morning rides and turning them into formal events in support of the Department of Tourism's 'Moto Tourism' program.