Superbike star Jacq Buncio champions women in motorsports

Philippine Superbike Championship titleholder Jacq Buncio is looking to expand female participation and improve training accessibility in Philippine motorsport, a discipline traditionally dominated by male competitors.

Armed with more than a decade of racing experience, Buncio has captured three overall titles in the Philippine Superbike Championship, winning the Rookie Division in 2018 before securing the Intermediate and Novice crowns in 2021 and 2022.

She also finished as the Expert overall runner-up in 2023 and placed second in the Pirelli Championships 400cc Pro category in 2025.

Speaking in an online interview, Buncio stressed that her goals extend beyond podium finishes to encouraging more women to enter competitive motorcycle racing.

"I know I was a gateway for women in motorsports. I served as a pillar for them to think, 'Uy, kaya ni Ate Jacq, kaya ko rin,'" Buncio said.

Buncio began racing in 2011 following the death of her brother, a fellow motorcycle racer. She noted that her initial motivation was to continue his legacy and rekindle her father's enthusiasm for the sport.

"The fuel that started it was my desire to finish what he didn’t get to finish. So that’s what sparked me back in 2011," she recalled.

Despite early reluctance from her family due to safety concerns and gender norms within the sport, Buncio established herself as a regular contender in grids typically comprising 30 to 40 male riders.

Looking toward the latter stages of her career, Buncio said she intends to establish dedicated training venues and grassroots programs to make motorsport safer and more accessible for aspiring male and female riders across the country.

"Before I retire someday, I want to leave something behind. I want to know that I left something meaningful," she said.