Athletes from around the world took over the streets of Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Sunday, August 10, as the IRONMAN 70.3 Philippines 2025 kicked off in its return to the traditional August schedule. Organizers projected up to 2,000 triathletes from over 40 countries for this year’s edition.
The race began at sunrise with a 1.9-kilometer swim in the clear waters off Mactan Island, followed by a 90-kilometer bike leg over the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), the country’s longest and tallest bridge. The final 21-kilometer run wound through the streets of Lapu-Lapu City, where crowds lined the route to cheer on competitors.
International Winners
Australia’s Josh Ferris topped the men’s professional division, finishing in 3:49:11 behind a strong bike performance and steady run. “The noise from the crowd was unbelievable,” Ferris said after the race.
In the women’s professional field, Amelia Rose Watkinson of New Zealand claimed victory in 4:14:22, securing her lead with a decisive move during the bike leg. “It’s not just racing—it’s racing with heart,” Watkinson said.
First Filipino Finisher
Mervin Rencel Santiago, 33, from Valenzuela City, was the first Filipino to cross the finish line with a time of 4:34:59.
“It’s very overwhelming representing our country,” Santiago said. “Malayo pa lang, I wasn’t even sure if I was first. But when I crossed that line, knowing I was the first Pinoy—it’s a feeling I can’t compare,” he added.
Community Festival
IRONMAN week in Cebu featured other events, including the 2GO Reyna Bulakna Run, the IRONKIDS Aquathlon, and the Sunrise Sprint for beginners.
With 35 qualifying slots per gender for the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Nice, France, the Lapu-Lapu race remains one of Asia’s most anticipated triathlons, combining world-class competition with the warm welcome of the Cebuano community.
