Seventy drivers have already confirmed their participation in the event that will be participated in by eight countries — Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Hongkong, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Japan and host the Philippines.

The foreign entries are arriving today and will be treated to a welcome dinner. They will get the chance to watch the world renown "Wanders" show at the Casino Filipino-Parañaque on Friday.

Defending Asian Karting Open champion Stefano Marcelo of San Miguel Corporation-Maranello-Marcelo Racing, Jet Racing’s Javi Benitez and Macau leg winners Juha Turalba and Joey Orduna of R2R-Tuason Racing will lead the country’s assault in this event sponsored by PagCor Sports, San Miguel Corporation, Pilipinas Shell, Palmer Asia, Department of Tourism and Vivere Hotel.

Marcelo is fresh from an impressive showing in the WSK World Karting Series in Sarno Italy and will spearhead the country’s bid in the premier Formula 125 Open Seniors. He is expected to face stiff challenge from Aaron Lim of Malaysia, Vica Chong and last year’s runner-up Luca Ferigutti of Hongkong, and top Thai karters Jonathan Reveille and Pasin Lathouras.

Stefano hopes to stage a big comeback to boost his bid for a back-to-back Asian crown after finishing only fourth in the Macau kickoff race last month.

Without Macau winner Tin Sritrai of Thailand and Indonesians Ryan Anthony Monoarfa and Rio Haryanto, Stefano is tipped as the heavy favorite.