‘Tour de Manille’ to mark celebration of Philippines-France relations

MANILA, Philippines — The Embassy of France, together with Firefly Brigade and SM Malls, will hold the first ever Tour de Manille as part of PhilFrance: Feel French!, a yearlong celebration of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and the Philippines.

Tour de Manille was patterned after Tour de France, one of the biggest annual sporting events in the world that takes place in July.

"It brings the very famous tour in France a glimpse here in Manila," SM Senior Vice-President for Marketing Millie Dizon said in a press conference held at Biker's Cafe Tuesday.

"This brings a lot of friendship, relationship between France and the Philippines. It brings good health, good sports," she added.

Firefly Brigade President Jack Yabut explained that there will be pursuers, composed of professional cyclists from team 7-Eleven, Navy and Go for Gold. Runners in the Fun Ride and Chase category will be given a two-minute head start in the last lap, until professional cyclists chase them. 

Yabut also shared that they are planning to include points system in the future events.

Like Tour de France's Red Number, the first 300 riders will receive Medallion Rouge for their "courage" while top 3 riders will receive cash prize and medals.

Paris currently has a bid to host the 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games. The host for the 2024 and 2028 games will be announced in September this year. - Aaron Brennt B. Eusebio