Tabogon Launches Inaugural Rally Cross Event to Support Earthquake-Damaged Churches
In a significant community-driven initiative, the municipality of Tabogon in Northern Cebu is set to host a two-day motor sports extravaganza aimed at generating funds for the rehabilitation of local churches affected by a recent earthquake. The event, dubbed the Tabogon Rally Circuit Inaugural Race, forms a core part of the broader 1st Mayor Francis Salimbangon Rally Cross Competition 2026, scheduled to take place on February 7 and 8, 2026, at the newly established Tabogon Rally Circuit in Barangay Somosa.
Fundraising for Church Restoration Efforts
During a phone interview on Thursday, February 5, 2026, Tabogon Mayor Francis Edward Salimbangon revealed that each of the beneficiary churches requires approximately P2 million for comprehensive rehabilitation. The targeted churches include the San Isidro Parish in Poblacion and St. Martin de Porres in Ilihan, Tabogon, both of which sustained damage from the earthquake that recently struck Bogo City, Cebu. Mayor Salimbangon emphasized that the primary goal of the event is to provide crucial financial support for these religious structures, ensuring they can be restored to their former glory and continue serving the community.
Promoting Sports Tourism and Economic Growth
Beyond its charitable purpose, the rally cross competition is strategically designed to boost local tourism and foster economic development in Tabogon. Mayor Salimbangon explained, "We are trying to promote extreme sports tourism in Tabogon. Since we lack nice beaches or traditional tourist spots, we aim to invite people to our small town. As mayor, we are finding ways to attract more visitors to our municipality. This is just one of many plans we have, similar to how Camarines Sur promotes wakeboarding. Here, we are utilizing our vast idle lands, which can help promote economic growth in our town." This approach highlights a creative use of underutilized resources to create new opportunities and instill pride among residents.
Event Details and Participation
The rally cross competition is open to all racers, not only from Cebu and nearby towns but also from neighboring provinces, encouraging widespread participation. Mayor Salimbangon also clarified that no government funds were used in organizing the event, underscoring its community-based and self-sustaining nature. The competition will feature four distinct race groups to accommodate various vehicle types and modifications:
- Group 1: Open to stock vehicles using road tires, regardless of engine displacement.
- Group 2: Allows open tires and coilovers, with turbocharged engines up to 1300cc permitted.
- Group 3: Includes open tires, coilovers, limited-slip differentials, vehicle lightening, and engines ranging from 1800cc to 2000cc.
- Group 4: Open to all-wheel-drive vehicles with engine displacements of 2001cc and above.
Registration fees are set at P2,000 per driver, with an additional P1,500 per class for participants entering multiple categories, making it accessible to a diverse range of enthusiasts.
Additional Weekend Activities
Complementing the main rally cross event is the TBGN Karera sa Bao-Bao 2026, a motorized tricycle race to be held at the same venue. This side attraction offers cash prizes to winners, with P3,000 for first place, P2,000 for second, and P1,000 for third. Participation is limited to 12 slots, available on a first-come, first-served basis, adding an element of local flavor and excitement to the weekend's festivities.
Overall, the Tabogon Rally Circuit Inaugural Race represents a multifaceted initiative that combines charitable fundraising, sports promotion, and tourism development, all while leveraging community resources to drive positive change in Northern Cebu.
