Jomari Yllana is on a mission to restore Philippine motorsports to its former glory. Once known primarily as an actor and politician, Yllana is now carving out a new identity as a motorsport organizer and advocate, determined to rally enthusiasts into a unified, energized community.
Long before he became a public figure, he was a racing enthusiast — first in underground circuits in his teens, then as a professional racer in 1996 with Toyota. Now in his 50s, he is building platforms for others to race legally and safely.
His latest effort, the Motorsport Carnivale, flags off on May 4 at Okada Manila’s boardwalk and gardens in Parañaque City. Backed by Okada Manila and organized through Yllana Racing, the event includes a full day of Super Sprint action, a Grand Car Meet of ‘90s legends, and later this month, the Joms Cup, an 1/8-mile drag race featuring Super Cars, Muscle Cars, and Vintage Cars. There will also be a showcase for electric vehicles, with celebrity drivers expected to take part.
“We’re proud to bring back this celebration of speed, style, and Filipino pride,” Yllana said during the launch event at Okada Manila. “We promise high-speed thrills and nostalgic charm for car enthusiasts and families alike. We want to rally every racing enthusiast, family, and fan into one inclusive and passionate motorsport community.”
“Expect intense competition across all categories. This adds a modern and sustainable twist to the day’s events,” he carried on.
Rikki Dy-Liacco, president of the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), voiced his support during the media launch.
“The resurgence of legal and organized racing is important not just for the sport, but for public safety and national pride,” he said. “Efforts like these bring back discipline and structure, while helping the next generation appreciate the legacy of Philippine motorsports.”
Yllana added that part of their long-term plan is to promote future champions and eventually host international races. “We are setting up the platform for the next generation. The circuits are there, the approach we are doing right now is to bring back races in Manila,” he said.
The momentum builds on the success of Motorsport Carnivale 2023, which drew 2,400 vehicles and thousands of spectators. According to Yllana, 2023’s turnout proved that the local racing scene still has life.
“We have awakened a sleeping giant,” he said. “Through this event, we were reminded of the passion that fuels our local motorsport scene — and we’re just getting started.”
Inspired by the glory days of the Philippine Grand Prix—a series held in Manila from 1973 to 1976—Yllana hopes to rekindle that same spirit with help from Okada Manila and other partners.
Organizers plan to make the Carnivale a regular event, with preparations for the 2026 edition already underway.
In addition, Yllana Racing is organizing Rally of Parañaque and Rally of Lubang in June, events expected to close several city roads and culminate at the Okada boardwalk, allowing spectators to witness racers cross the finish line.
What started as a personal passion is now evolving into a full-scale motorsport revival. With a mix of veteran experience, community building, and strategic partnerships, Yllana may just steer Philippine racing into a new era—one where speed meets structure and legacy fuels the next lap.
