The streets of Manila are set to come alive once again as Sunrise Events officially launched the 2026 AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila, presented by ASICS, during a special media conference held at Bulwagang Villegas, Manila City Hall. Hosted by television personality and host Andrei Felix, the launch marked the beginning of preparations for the fifth edition of one of the country’s most anticipated running events.
Set to take place on November 29, 2026, the AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila continues to strengthen its position on the global running stage. The race course remains AIMS and World Athletics-certified, making it the first marathon course in the Philippines capable of officially accrediting qualifying times for the Abbott World Marathon Majors. This certification allows runners to use their official Manila finish times toward qualification standards for some of the world’s most prestigious marathons while further elevating the event’s international credibility.
Celebrating its milestone fifth edition, the 2026 event embraces the theme, “Ito ay atin, sariling atin,” highlighting Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Filipino culture, and the vibrant spirit of Manila through a unique collaboration with National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.
The launch gathered partners, members of the media, influencers, run clubs, and special guests, including Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, Brand, Marketing and Partnerships Director of AIA Philippines Katherine Wong, Brand Director of ASICS for Sonak Philippines Ines Preysler, Sunrise Events President and General Manager Princess Galura, and National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.
“This year is more than just a race celebration,” said Princess Galura. “It is a celebration of Filipino identity, Filipino music, and the community that helped build Rock ‘n’ Roll Manila over the last five years.”
A Global Running Series with a Distinctly Filipino Identity
Part of the globally renowned Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series, Manila joins an international lineup of host cities that have included Las Vegas, San Diego, Nashville, Madrid, Mexico City, Santiago, and Taipei. Each host city brings its own culture and energy into the Rock ‘n’ Roll experience, and for 2026, Manila is putting Filipino culture and music at the center of the celebration.
The anniversary edition reflects a strong Filipino identity through its collaboration with Ryan Cayabyab and its focus on OPM. Organizers highlighted the event as a celebration of Filipino culture, creativity, and community while continuing the signature race experience that has become synonymous with the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series.
Over the last five years, the AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila has grown into an event that combines running, music, entertainment, and community participation. The 2026 edition continues that tradition while showcasing Manila and Filipino culture to participants and visitors.
Official 2026 Medals and Shirts Celebrate OPM and Manila
One of the highlights of the launch was the unveiling of the official 2026 medals and shirts featuring the graphic artistry of Ryan Cayabyab through his original doodles and artistic expressions.
Inspired by iconic Manila landmarks and some of his timeless songs, each race category carries its own unique identity:
- Marathon – “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika”
- Half Marathon – “Wala Kang Katulad”
- AIA 10KM – “Mamang Kutsero” & “Paraiso”
- 5KM – “Limang Dipang Tao”
- AIA 1KM Kids – “Da Coconut Nut”
- Remix – “Kumukutikutitap”
Designed as a collectible anniversary series, the medals and shirts celebrate Filipino culture, music, and five unforgettable years of Rock ‘n’ Roll Manila history.
The launch also featured special performances by Geneva Cruz together with Ryan Cayabyab and Reujen Lista, bringing OPM to the center of the celebration and reinforcing this year’s Filipino theme.
New Highlights Announced for the 2026 Edition
As part of the anniversary edition, organizers announced several new highlights for 2026 designed to enhance the race-day experience.
Among the additions are OPM-themed on-course music stations, expanded entertainment and cheer zones, and a massive concert featuring some of the Philippines’ favorite bands at the Quirino Grandstand.
The celebration will also include a special Global Running Day promo offering introductory launch pricing across all distances for 36 hours beginning June 3.
Additional activities include a TikTok dance challenge and flash mob inspired by the iconic Filipino song “Da Coconut Nut,” as well as special collaboration merchandise and collectibles celebrating Filipino music and Manila culture.
These additions reinforce the event’s unique combination of running, music, entertainment, and community participation while highlighting Filipino creativity and culture.
AIA Philippines Continues Support for Running and Wellness
The 2026 edition also highlights AIA Philippines’ continued support of the running community and its commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles through sports and wellness initiatives.
“As title sponsor since last year and a long-standing presenting sponsor of the running series, we’re proud to help elevate Manila onto the global running map, advancing AIA’s Purpose to help people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives. We believe sports like running are a powerful way to embrace a healthy lifestyle, and through this event, we aim to inspire more Filipinos to take charge of their wellness and have fun, while giving them a legitimate pathway to the world’s most prestigious races,” added Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer, AIA Philippines.
The continued certification of the marathon course and the international recognition associated with the event further strengthen Manila’s reputation as a world-class running destination.
AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila 2026 Set for November 29
The 2026 AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila, presented by ASICS, will take place on November 29, 2026.
Race categories include the Marathon, Half Marathon, AIA 10KM, 5KM, and AIA 1KM Kids, offering options for runners of different ages and experience levels.
As it celebrates its fifth edition, the AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila continues to bring together music, movement, culture, and community through a uniquely Filipino race experience. With OPM-inspired elements, commemorative anniversary merchandise, expanded entertainment offerings, and a globally recognized marathon course, the event marks another milestone for both the running series and Manila’s growing presence on the international running calendar.
For registration details and additional information, interested participants may visit the official AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila registration page.
