When the theme “Feel It” was announced at Canon Photomarathon 2026, Von Cedrick Cunanan immediately thought about two things: the heat and the working class. The civil engineer, who joined over 1,200 participants in Canon’s full-day photography and video competition, searched for a subject that could genuinely reflect emotion and everyday reality.
He eventually found that moment at a jeepney terminal, where a jeepney driver was resting inside his vehicle under the intense midday heat.
“I wanted to capture what he’s feeling,” Cunanan said. “The heat, the tiredness, the gas prices. I wanted the judges to feel something when they saw it.”
The powerful image earned Cunanan the Grand Champion title at Canon Photomarathon 2026, which took place on April 18, 2026, at the BGC Amphitheater in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
“I saw how these types of photos can open people’s eyes to what’s happening around them. I’ll keep doing what I’m doing,” he said.
From Casual Photography to Canon Photomarathon 2026 Grand Champion
Cunanan’s journey into photography started during childhood. He initially took family photos using film cameras and plastic point-and-shoot devices. His passion for photography deepened when his mother gifted him his first proper camera upon entering college in 2010.
Although he photographed casually for years, Cunanan eventually stepped away from photography around 2018. In 2025, he decided to return to street photography and began researching mirrorless full-frame cameras. He ultimately chose the Canon EOS RP because of its compact size, intuitive controls, and Canon’s color science.
When Cunanan encountered a countdown post for Canon Photomarathon 2026, he immediately registered for the event.
“It was my first time ever to do a photomarathon, or any kind of photowalk, in fact. I wanted a chance to experience an event like this,” he shared.
For winning the competition, Cunanan took home a Canon EOS R6 III with RF24-105mm IS STM lens, marking a major upgrade from the Canon EOS RP he previously used.
Canon Photomarathon 2026 Returns After Seven Years
Canon Photomarathon 2026 officially marked the return of the iconic photography competition after a seven-year hiatus. The event brought together creators, hobbyists, photographers, videographers, and members of the media for a full-day celebration of photography, video creation, and visual storytelling.
This year’s edition expanded beyond traditional photography categories. Alongside the Open Photo and Canon-exclusive Main Photo categories, Canon introduced a Video Category for the first time. The event also broadened participation by welcoming all digital camera users, while maintaining dedicated Media and Employee categories.
The BGC Amphitheater transformed into an interactive creative hub throughout the event. Participants and attendees explored the Canon Creator Park, which featured immersive setups for pet photography, cosplay photography, and bridal portrait sessions led by Canon ambassadors and professionals.
The main stage also hosted educational workshops and talks from industry creatives. Participants attended wildlife photography sessions with Marie Lozano and Aaron Gekowski, content creation discussions with Gab Altonaga, cityscape photography workshops led by Edwin Martinez, and EOS C50 sessions featuring Ian Celis and Paolo Ruiz.
Attendees were also given the opportunity to experience Canon’s latest imaging technologies firsthand. In addition, on-site instant printing stations with MegaTank Printers allowed participants to transform digital captures into physical keepsakes during the event.
Canon Highlights the Growing Creator Community in the Philippines
“What made today special was seeing so many different kinds of creators in one place, all chasing the same thing: a moment worth capturing,” said Anuj Aggarwal, President and CEO of Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. “Canon Photomarathon 2026 reminded us that creativity grows when people are given the room and the tools to explore it together.”
Canon Photomarathon 2026 forms part of Canon’s broader initiative to support and nurture the growing creator community in the Philippines. Through events like the Photomarathon, Canon continues to provide platforms where photographers and videographers of all skill levels can connect, learn, and showcase their work.
Canon Marketing Philippines confirmed that winning entries and event highlights from Canon Photomarathon 2026 will be featured across its official channels in the coming weeks. More information is available through the Canon PH Delightful app and Canon Philippines’ official platforms.
