CinemaBravo

Hundreds of cycling enthusiasts gathered on April 26 for the Batangas Ride, a spontaneous but meaningful event hosted by triathlete, content creator, and Sparkle artist Aira Lopez. The ride took place at Sierra Makiling Grounds in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas, creating a fun and unforgettable experience for all who joined.

Making the event even more memorable was the surprise participation of Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste—Aira’s boyfriend—who also happens to be running for Congressman in the province’s third district. It marked his first time joining one of Aira’s rides.

On Facebook, Aira shared how happy she was that he joined despite the short notice. “Kahit na biglaan lang, hundreds of cyclists joined this spontaneous Yaya ride! It was a short and sweet trip, made even more special because sinamahan tayo ng ating PareCong MARK LEVISTE for the first time! It was his first ride, kaya hindi naka-cycling shorts, so imagine niyo yung tiis sa sakit ng pwet haha but still finished the 30kms!”

(Even though it was unplanned, hundreds of cyclists still joined this spontaneous Yaya ride! It was a short and sweet trip that became extra special because our PareCong MARK LEVISTE joined us for the first time! It was his first ride, and he didn’t wear cycling shorts, so just imagine the pain—but he still managed to finish the 30 kilometers!)

Vice Governor Leviste also showed his strong support for cycling events that promote wellness and local tourism. On his own Facebook page, he wrote: “Bilang inyong PareCONG Mark Leviste, buong puso kong sinusuportahan ang mga ganitong adbokasiya na nagtutulak ng malusog na pamumuhay, pagkakaisa ng komunidad, at promosyon ng turismo sa ating lalawigan. Maraming salamat sa lahat ng lumahok at nagpakita ng malasakit at suporta!”

(As your PareCONG Mark Leviste, I wholeheartedly support these kinds of advocacies that encourage a healthy lifestyle, unity within the community, and the promotion of tourism in our province. Thank you to everyone who joined and showed care and support!)

Cyclists who enjoyed the ride commented on Aira’s Facebook post featuring the official photos, sharing their own pictures, congratulating her, and expressing excitement for another ride in Batangas—and even suggesting future rides in other locations like Tagaytay.

The ride was a huge success, showcasing the strong sense of community and the passion for promoting a healthier lifestyle in Batangas.