Biliran: The Philippines’ longest-running and most iconic adventure race once again takes centerstage in Biliran province as La Routa Adventure Race 2025 officially serves as the Adventure Racing World Series (ARWS) Asian Championship Leg from Nov. 18 to 21. Jointly organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) regional office here, the provincial government of Biliran, and Bukid Outdoor Shop, this year’s La Routa reinforces Eastern Visayas’ growing reputation as a premier host for world-class adventure and outdoor sporting events.

According to Philippines News Agency, for the 2025 edition, La Routa welcomes 12 elite teams from Malaysia, India, Japan, the Czech Republic, and the Philippines. These include Malaysia’s KBS Adventure Team, KBS Phantom Stride, Kamikaze Silva, and Skomad; India’s Shershah Adventure Racing Team; Japan’s East Wind and B-Kemonogotchi; and the Czech Republic’s Fenix Multisport, whose lineup features athletes from the United States, Czechia, Switzerland, and Canada. Representing the host country are top Philippine squads Dirt Adventure Racing Team, A-Plot, Team Apurado, and Tres Islas.

DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes on Monday said teams will navigate a 300-kilometer, four-day nonstop race combining mountain biking, paddling, trekking, navigation, and round-the-clock strategic decision-making. Eighty percent of the route has been redesigned, featuring a newly opened cross-country jungle trail and segments inspired by Filipino traditional games – unique cultural elements that set La Routa apart from other ARWS races.

Tiopes, who also serves as race director, highlighted Biliran’s rising stature as a global adventure destination. ‘This is the second time that La Routa – and the province of Biliran – have been chosen to host the ARWS Asian Championship Leg. It is a testament to the quality of the race, the commitment of its organizers, and the exceptional terrain Biliran offers to the global adventure community,’ Tiopes said.

First staged annually from 2000 to 2010 and revived in 2019, La Routa has become a pillar of Philippine outdoor competition. Its international prominence rose further after hosting the first ARWS Asian Championship under the ARWS Asia Circuit in 2023, solidifying its status as one of the region’s most challenging and culturally rich adventure races.

This year’s race is also drawing international supporters, including delegations from Malaysia, India, the Czech Republic, and a 13-member media crew from Japan’s NHK TV, further expanding La Routa’s global reach. At the end of the grueling four-day expedition, only one team will emerge as the 2025 champion and secure a coveted slot in the 2026 ARWS World Championship.