In a stunning upset, third pick Istolen Ola emerged victorious in the highly anticipated 2024 Philracom Commissioner Dante Lantin Cup held at the MetroTurf in Malvar, Batangas on Sunday. Owned and bred by Melaine Habla, the bay four-year-old by Brigand out of Close Haul defied the odds to claim the prestigious title.

Under the guidance of Philippine Sportswriters Association Jockey of the Year John Alvin Guce, Istolen Ola seized an early lead and maintained its momentum throughout the race, outpacing the favorite, Boss Emong. Despite Boss Emong’s efforts to catch up in the final quarter, Istolen Ola, trained by Ruben Tupas, surged ahead to secure victory by two lengths, clinching the champion’s purse worth PHP1.08 million.

Boss Emong settled for second place, earning PHP405,000, while War Cannon and Don Julio finished third and fourth, respectively, receiving PHP225,000 and PHP90,000.

In Division II of the competition, Tisha Sevilla’s Jungkook emerged triumphant, claiming the top prize of PHP420,000. The progeny of Low Profile out of Liquid Oxygen, bred by Esguerra Farm & Stud Inc., made a decisive move in the final quarter, crossing the finish line in 1:39.4 ahead of Jaguar, Sophisticated, Palauig, and Easy Does It.

Meanwhile, Leyte Vice Governor Sandy Javier Jr.’s Moderne Cong emerged as the champion of Division III, securing victory over Diversity, Uncle Vhines, Mimbalot Falls, and King Tiger. Moderne Cong took home the top prize of PHP300,000, while the runners-up received PHP100,000 (2nd), PHP50,000 (3rd), PHP25,000 (4th), and PHP15,000 (5th).

Commissioner Dante Lantin expressed his gratitude to Philracom for naming the race in his honor and voiced optimism for the future of the racing industry.