Philbikers Mosrai: Of motorbikes, camaraderie and community service
During a motorcade in Passi
*Philbikers Mosrai used to be a simple organization of motorbikers who meet and talk about their passion. Through the years, it has evolved into a community-sensitive organization
There was a time when it's enough that one's motorcyle serves its purpose --- to bring you to your destination. But nowadays, this vehicle had become not only a mode of transportation but a thing of fashion and passion. Motorbikes are being dressed up in different colors, accessorized with special lights, music and even DVD players! You can see a lot of these everywhere, making it safe to say that there are many motorbike enthusiasts around.
To organize these motorbike aficionados, the Philbikers Mosrai (Motorsports Raider Association, Inc.) was founded by Mario Iguidez in 2003. It started with seven and now it has 150 members in Iloilo City and Province.
After the motorcade for McDonald's opening
Philbikers Mosrai used to be a simple organization of motorbikers who meet and talk about their passion. Through the years, it has evolved into a community-sensitive organization.
It is actively supporting Balay Dalayunan, a rehabilitation center for boys. Every December, they hold a gift-giving activity. This May, they will come back to check the status of its residents, according to Anthony Estancia, president of Philbikers Mosrai. They also participated in health campaigns, Kasadyahan 2008 and more.
Mario Iguidez, Anthony Estancia, Dante Pamonag
and Mayor Eusebio Chavez
Another thrust is to help in tourism and mobilization efforts. They participate in motorcades and caravans of establishments and the local government unit. "We are a non-profit group and we do not charge for such participation. Well-meaning establishments give us freebies as tokens for our support," Estancia said. The group also participated in the Department of Tourism's Porma Balas 2008. "We are composed of people from different walks of life, including artists." The members have traveled to Guimaras, Dumarao, Passi and Antique because of their sport.
Every summer, the organization holds different sports activities. Today, 4 pm at the Robinsons Mall, the group will host the "Philbikers On The Spot Modifying Challenge," wherein participants will modify their motorbikes. An induction of its new set of officers will take place on the same day, too. On April 26, which is their anniversary, all chapters will hold a jamboree, giving the members and their families a chance to foster camaraderie. A slow race is part of the plan, Estancia said. On May 3, they will participate in the Shell Advance Solo Motorcycle and Scooter Challenge, SM City. There will be a race, safety courses and motor show.
At the Philbikers Motorshow
Being a member of Philbikers Mosrai is also beneficial to its members. They hold talks on safety and first aid. Estancia is quite concerned that some bikers do not wear helmets. "They are putting their life at risk," he said. He hopes that with the talks, bikers would become safer with their bikes.
Philbikers Mosrai also has chapters in Calinog and Passi.