Mazda PH sweeps the 2025 Makabayan Cup Endurance Series

We know that the Mazda MX-5 is a very capable race machine in the right hands. In fact, we locally see the convertible sports car participate in multiple events such as the MSCC Miata Spec Series one-make-race, and the more flexible, gentleman’s race in the Miata Cup. But what most didn’t expect is that the MX-5 is a very formidable challenger in endurance racing, specifically the Petron Makabayan Cup series.

Featuring the four-hour Kagitingan Cup, the eight-hour Bonifacio Cup, and the 12-hour Kalayaan Cup held at either the Clark International Speedway or the Batangas Racing Circuit, these races are held on the historically significant dates they’re named after.

The MX-5 has been participating in the Makabayan Cup for seven years under, starting out with the one-off Team Mazda Miata, eventually turning into Team MSCC Mazda Miata, entering with the #55 MX-5 that evolved from wearing the art car-inspired “Imagine” livery, to becoming a full carbon fiber body.

Team MSCC Mazda Miata is backed by Mazda Philippines, with a support team headed by Edgen Dy-Liacco. The roster has experienced racers such as Angie King, Windy Imperial, Tyson Sy, Juha Turalba, Matt Solomon and Milo Rivera.

For the 2025 season, it has achieved a historical achievement in having a sweeping victory across all three races, setting benchmarks for the driving performance, reliability, and durability. The #55 race car also set a lap record of 2:06.6 around the Clark International Speedway.

Apart from the full carbon fiber body, it gained a sequential manual gearbox for last year’s season. The 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine of the MX-5 remained stock, with the same 184 horsepower and 205Nm of torque. Despite the power deficit, the car managed to stay ahead of more powerful cars with its handling and chassis balance.

“The 2025 MSCC Miata Endurance Race Series marks a historic milestone for Mazda Philippines,” says President of Mazda Philippines Steven Tan. “Our success this year isn’t just about winning a season. It is a culmination of seven years of commitment, refinement, and belief in the MX-5 platform.”

^{Photos from Mazda Philippines}