A legacy beyond the highway

Manila Chapter member Rizalino “Yen” Roxas is a proud H.O.G.^™ member and keen to ensure the community can make a positive difference

Yen is fairly new to riding Harley-Davidsons, having picked up his first one in 2019. But for him, it’s more than just a motorcycle. Since joining the Harley Owners Group^™ family, he has embraced the spirit of adventure and found the opportunity to really make a difference.

“When I felt the roar of the engine, it echoed something deeper: freedom, brotherhood, and purpose,” he reflects. “I chose a Harley-Davidson^® motorcycle because it’s more than a brand, it’s a symbol of passion, resilience and living life on your own terms, forging connections with people who speak the same language – the road, the ride and respect.”

He currently owns two Harleys – a Sportster^™ Forty-Eight^™ and Softail^™ Heritage Classic. He has taken them on some incredible journeys, both alone and in company. On his most recent tour, he had the honour of leading a group of 32 passionate riders on a 4,400km route across the islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

“It wasn’t always easy. The roads were long, the weather unpredictable and the terrain challenging. What kept us going was the purpose behind every kilometre: to promote the hidden gems of our islands and support local tourism and economies, one ride at a time,” he reveals.

“Each lake, each stop, each community we visited reminded us of the beauty and potential of the Philippines. We weren’t just riding for the thrill; we were riding for impact.”

Exploring his home country is something very close to Yen’s heart. For him, it’s not just about tourist hotspots but about uncovering and experiencing the real Philippines in places that are often overlooked. “I enjoy the local smiles, the untold stories and awesome regional food,” he grins. “Each province holds a unique heartbeat, a different flavour, a distinct voice, and I wanted to listen.”

Having a Harley-Davidson motorcycle to get him there is ideal – it gives him the freedom to experience his country in its raw, unfiltered beauty. Along the way, he has been inspired by the warmth of strangers, the pride of local communities and the resilience of those striving to build better lives for themselves and their loved ones. Yen has already explored 76 of the 82 provinces in the Philippines, using it as his way of unwinding after the working week, slowing down to appreciate the simple pleasures in life.

Through his fellow riders and community within Manila Chapter, Yen has found a second family. He has served as director and is particularly proud of the group for its achievements. In both 2022 and 2023, Manila Chapter was named Chapter of the Year at the annual Asia Harley Days rally in Thailand, and riders proudly fly the national flag wherever they ride together.

The chapter has also pulled together to help their community by taking on projects including medical, dental and optical missions; coastal clean-ups; tree planting; blood donation drives; and outreach activities for orphanages and homes for the elderly.

“I’m proud to share one of our most meaningful community projects, with lasting legacy: the H.O.G. Manila Eco Park,” he beams. “In partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, we’re co-developing a five-hectare reforestation site, where we planted more than 3,000 endemic trees. This is more than just a tree-planting activity – it’s a five-year stewardship programme. After nurturing the land, we will formally hand it back to the government, greener and stronger than we found it.”

Yen says that Manila Chapter will create a legacy far beyond the highway. This vision also informs his aims as the H.O.G. Philippines regional director. “I envision a community where we ride and have fun but also make a meaningful impact through outreach, advocacy and showing the power of brotherhood on two wheels,” he concludes. “Together we can inspire the next generation of riders. Because when we ride united, we don’t just move forward, we lead the way.”

Looking for a new adventure off the beaten track in the Philippines? Yen recommends:

1. Bulusan Lake, Sorsogon
   Experience the calm of the Orient’s Switzerland: a serene escape where misty mornings, lush forests and peaceful waters await.
2. Lake Apo, Bukidnon
   Discover Mindanao’s cleanest and most peaceful retreat, where crystal-clear waters and highland hospitality come together.
3. Mapanuepe Lake, Zambales
   Find New Zealand vibes in the heart of Zambales, where adventure and tranquillity meet in this volcanic wonderland.

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