Defending champion Dae Yeong Joo claimed victory in Stage 11 of the MPTC Tour of Luzon, finishing with a solo breakaway in San Juan, La Union.
Joo, riding for the Gapyeong Cycling Team, crossed the finish line in three hours, 19 minutes, and 16 seconds, marking a long-awaited win after several attempts in this year's competition.
Upon reaching the finish at the municipal hall, Joo celebrated by bowing to the crowd, seemingly unfazed by the nine riders chasing behind him.
Malaysian cyclist Saniy Mohd Safiee secured second place, finishing 11 seconds behind Joo, while Dominic Perez of Team Pangasinan took third, 12 seconds adrift.
Joo's victory was followed by a fine of P1,950 from the organizers for a technically unsafe celebration, despite its harmless nature.
Among the chase group were popular riders, including Ronald Oranza, who finished fourth, and Mervin Corpuz, who earlier won a special challenge on the Candon Bypass Road.
The stage featured a six-lap race covering 78 kilometers, part of a longer 151.7-kilometer route from Candon City to the finish line.
Overall leader Nikita Shulchenko had a quieter day, placing 52nd, 3 minutes and 30 seconds behind Joo, as he maintained his position in the peloton.