What “Salo-Salo” really means
This year’s theme, “Salo-Salo,” has shaped the entire spirit of the event. In Filipino culture, salo-salo means a shared meal or gathering where people come together to eat, celebrate, and spend time as one group.
It goes beyond food as it represents togetherness, hospitality, and community spirit, where everyone contributes and everyone is included.
At Kalayaan Ride, that meaning has come to life in the desert. Cycling teams and participants have brought food, shared resources, and supported one another, turning hydration stops and rest areas into communal spaces of connection, much like a family gathering away from home.
Growth fuelled by connection
Last year’s turnout of just more than 350 cyclists has already marked a milestone. This year’s jump to over 550 registered riders has signalled something bigger, an increasing movement built not only on cycling, but on shared identity and belonging.
Beyond fitness and endurance, Kalayaan Ride has evolved into a platform promoting road safety awareness, healthy living, and stronger community ties among overseas Filipinos.
Tricia is a reporter and anchor whose work focuses on people, policy, expatriate communities, and Filipinos at home and abroad. Her reporting spans national affairs, overseas Filipinos, and major developments across the Middle East. She holds a degree in Broadcasting and has contributed to leading media organisations. With experience across television, print, and digital platforms, Tricia continues to develop a clear, credible voice in a rapidly evolving global media landscape.