Loop Adventure Tour Drops Bombshell: Ferdinand Dela Merced Not an Official Participant
FERDINAND DELA MERCED – Amid the growing online buzz, the Loop Adventure Tour committee clarified that Ferdinand Dela Merced’s name was never on their official roster of participants.
The organizers of the Philippine Loop Adventure Tour have released an official clarification regarding the status of Ferdinand Dela Merced, asserting that he is not an officially registered participant of the nationwide walking event.
In their public statement, the committee emphasized that Dela Merced’s registration was declined due to health-related concerns and incomplete documentation. Specifically, the organizers cited his hypertension and failure to submit a valid medical certificate confirming his physical fitness to endure the extensive and demanding trek.
The Philippine Loop Adventure Tour, known for its multi-month journey around the country, requires participants to traverse long walking hours, unpredictable weather, and challenging high-altitude terrains. Given these conditions, the committee highlighted that medical clearance and strong physical endurance are vital requirements for safety.
The organizers stated that the decision was made to ensure the safety and welfare of all participants. They further underscored that the event’s guiding principles revolve around promoting camaraderie, tourism, mutual respect, and friendship among participants throughout the tour.
The committee reiterated that maintaining the safety and well-being of all participants remains its top priority, expressing appreciation to those who continue to support the event in good faith and adhere to its rules and regulations.
Meanwhile, Dela Merced continues to face backlash in Negros Oriental following a series of controversial social media posts criticizing the province and its local officials. Reports indicate that the provincial board is considering declaring him persona non grata due to the negative remarks.
The controversy began when Dela Merced, who is currently pursuing his self-initiated “Walk Towards Guinness World Records” project, expressed disappointment online after the Provincial Tourism Office allegedly failed to acknowledge his arrival in Negros Oriental. He later clarified that he arrived on November 1, 2025—a public holiday—when government offices were closed.
As tensions rise online, the clarification from the Loop Adventure Tour aims to separate the organization’s activities from Dela Merced’s independent endeavors and to reinforce its commitment to responsible and safe adventure tourism.
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