The provincial government tapped the motorcycle community to promote several rider-tourist destinations and highlight the province’s natural beauty, rich culture and hospitality.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Sunday, Governor Hermilando Mandanas said the Batangas Loop promoted the province’s scenic destinations and environmental preservation.

Some 1,000 motorcycle enthusiasts joined the weekend ride.

“We take pride in Batangas’ many tourist attractions and the hospitality of Batangueños,” Mandanas said.

Among the must-visit spots along the route are the National Shrine of Padre Pio in Santo Tomas City and Taal Basilica, the largest church in the Philippines and Asia at 291-feet long and 48-meter wide.

Tourists can also visit the Verde Island Passage the world’s “center of the center” of marine shore fish biodiversity, and Montemaria, site of the Mother of All Asia-Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world at 322 feet from the ground to the tip of the cross atop the crown.

Local businesses benefitted from the event, like small enterprises selling lomi (soup-based thick egg noodles with pork meat and pork rinds), native (Barako) coffee and balisong (pocket foldable knife).

Cuenca acting tourism officer, Reggie Cruz, said the event also strengthened the town’s reputation as the “Home of the Bakers.”

“We’re grateful to be part of this. Tourists can enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Maculot and Taal Lake while sampling our renowned bakery products,” she said.

Checkpoints and security teams were deployed along the way. (PNA)