Davao — The city is preparing to welcome an influx of athletes and running enthusiasts as it gears up for the inaugural Singlife Davao Marathon on August 15, 2026. As the fifth leg of the prestigious Singlife Philippine Marathon Majors, this international-standard road race is set to transform the city's streets into a vibrant course, timed perfectly to coincide with the much-anticipated Kadayawan Festival. Organizers are targeting between 4,000 and 6,000 participants, ranging from elite athletes chasing qualifying times to recreational runners eager to join the celebration.
A World-Class Route in the Heart of Mindanao
The race, presented by SM Supermalls and organized by RunRio Inc., features 5K, 10K, 21K, and 42K categories, all starting and finishing at SM Lanang. The marathon route is designed to showcase Davao’s modern infrastructure and culturally rich neighborhoods, with the 42K course taking participants through iconic spots like Cabaguio Avenue, Leon Garcia Street, Quezon Boulevard, and the scenic Davao City Coastal Road. By aligning the event with the Kadayawan season, organizers hope to provide visiting runners with an unforgettable experience that blends the intensity of competitive racing with the warmth of Davao’s local traditions and community spirit.
Boosting Sports Tourism and Local Economy
RunRio Inc. president and CEO Rio dela Cruz emphasized that the event is a strategic move to position Davao as a premier sports tourism destination. Following successful legs in Makati, Iloilo, Manila, and Cebu, the Davao race is expected to generate significant local economic activity, similar to previous events where hotels were fully booked and local businesses saw a surge in patronage. "We really want to showcase Davao so that we can attract more," dela Cruz noted, highlighting the potential for road races to draw both domestic and international visitors who contribute to the city’s hospitality and transport sectors.
Elevating the Filipino Running Experience
Modeled after the prestigious World Marathon Majors, the Singlife Philippine Marathon Majors series aims to provide Filipino runners with a high-caliber racing experience without the need to travel abroad. The event maintains rigorous safety, timing, and race-management standards consistent across all eight legs of the series. Beyond the finish line, participants can look forward to substantial cash incentives for elite runners, car raffles for all eligible participants, and the opportunity to be part of a growing community of runners committed to endurance and healthy living. With the race pushing through "rain or shine," it stands as a testament to the resilient and energetic spirit of the Filipino running community.
