If there’s one thing we can learn from our adventures in the great outdoors, it’s that we’ll never know where seizing the day will take us. Our zest for life and adventurous spirit might even bring us to Los Angeles, California—the Petersen Automotive Museum, in particular—for this year’s prestigious International Motor Film Awards (IMFAs).
Photo: Gregor Halenda, Daniel “Starvo” Girizd
At least, that’s the case for the Filipino storytellers behind The Best Tropical Adventure Rally You’ve Never Heard Of, an action-packed documentary that’ll raise our flag at the IMFAs on November 14, 2026. The enticing outdoor quest earned a Best Documentary Episode nomination, bringing unmatched pride to the team and their kababayans worldwide.
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If this is your first time hearing about the documentary and its award-giving body, now’s your chance to catch up on its remarkable contributions to the dynamic film and automotive industries. Australian all-terrain motorist Rob Hamilton, also known as Moto Feelz, and his Filipina partner Jenna V. Genio brought the two fields together to spotlight a visionary story of diversity and Pinoy pride that the whole country deserves to watch.
Even in motorsports and similar avenues, Filipinos will always find a way to let their identities shine. Here’s everything you should know about The Best Tropical Adventure Rally You’ve Never Heard Of and the passionate minds behind it, just in time for the IMFAs next month:
An Unforgettable Journey Across Our Land
On March 19, 2025, Rob took his YouTube subscribers through what he deemed “one of the most demanding, eye-opening, intense, and absolutely amazing rides he had ever done”—the FJ Moto Mountaincross Adventure IV. He took part in the Philippines’ ultimate on- and off-road challenge for adventure riders, conquering three days and 1,200 kilometers of exploration along the country’s tropical trails.
The challenge comprised 400 participants grouped into 80 teams of five. Rob joined Team Daemon alongside Jenna and Filipino adventure riders Nong Amor, Kirk del Rosario, and Mel Aquino. Gregor Halenda from the U.S. and Daniel “Starvo” Girizd from Serbia also tagged along.
The FJ Moto Mountaincross Adventure IV took Rob, Jenna, and the rest of Team Daemon through a race that brought their fighting spirit to brand new heights. After intense preparations, deep jungle navigation, and even a quick visit to a remote elementary school, they finished the challenge with inspired minds and a renewed purpose.
“My first endurance rally and motorsport event. My biggest edit. What a milestone in my personal journey as a moto creator and adventure rider,” Rob proudly shared. Now, with an IMFA nomination under his belt, he can look back on this milestone with more fulfillment than ever before.
Another Incredible IMFA Nod for Moto Feelz
Rob’s life-changing journey in the Philippines isn’t the only achievement worth celebrating at this year’s IMFAs. His epic sci-fi short, Lost on Planet 11, also earned him a Best Independent Film nomination.
The 17-minute story, released on April 11, 2026, is a cinematic field journal that captures the wilderness and its stillness through transmitted messages and strange occurrences. The film’s heartfelt nature highlights Rob’s growth as an adventure rider, filmmaker, and brilliant storyteller, motivating viewers to take consistent steps towards their larger-than-life dreams.
More from the 2026 IMFAs
As the Philippines gears up to make its mark on the IMFAs, we’re also celebrating the award show’s legacy and lasting impact on motorsports professionals and enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Numerous creatives, car enthusiasts, and celebrities in the film and automotive world are joining forces to make the IMFAs a night of empowerment and human interest they’ll never forget. The award show aims to spotlight the commercials, independent films, documentaries, and even student-helmed narratives that brought insightful perspectives to the motorsports and racing culture worldwide.
“Having watched the awards evolve and grow every year, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the calibre of work continue to rise. The creativity and talent represented in this year’s submissions have once again exceeded our expectations, and we’re pleased to have such an exceptional selection of films as this year’s nominees,” shares Vic Armstrong of the awards jury.
Since 2014, the IMFAs have championed automotive disciplines and competitive atmospheres through every creative medium imaginable. Now that Filipinos are rightfully part of this growing space, we can’t wait to see where our powerful voices will take us next.
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Have you watched this awe-inspiring documentary episode yet? What are your thoughts on it? Let us know in the comments below!
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