The Cebu Marathon returns this Sunday with 12,000 registered runners, including a strong contingent of international participants. Organized by the Cebu Executives Runners Club (CERC), the marathon is now on its 18th year and continues to grow as a celebration of sports, health, and community.
Councilor Jose Abellanosa, who will be joining for the first time, expressed his excitement: “This will be my first marathon, and I’m thankful. Everyone, good luck.”
Global Participation
The marathon has drawn runners from across the world, with Japan leading the foreign entries at 97 participants. They are followed by the United States (64), South Korea (59), Australia (30), United Kingdom (21), Germany (18), Canada (15), Taiwan (14), France (13), and Singapore (11). The participation of runners from multiple countries highlights the role of AIMS certification in attracting foreign entries.
“The marathon’s AIMS certification has also helped attract foreign runners, making Cebu a destination for international participants,” said John Pages, co-founder of the Cebu Marathon. He also recognized the Cebu City government for its support: “The city has been one of the key reasons for our success. “
Promoting Health and Lifestyle
Dr. Rhoel Dejaňo of the Cebu City Sports Commission highlighted the health benefits of the event: “Running is a very popular sport. It promotes a healthy lifestyle, and we are thankful this has become a regular event every year.”
Former Councilor Mary Ann de los Santos, who will run the half marathon, reaffirmed her support: “The Cebu Marathon is now on its 18th year. I’ve joined (he Cebu Marathon) in the past, and it’s always fun. I’m proud to support it fully.”
Venue Partner and Accessibility
SM Seaside City, the marathon’s venue partner, will keep its facilities open from 10 a.m. Saturday until the end of the marathon. Regional operations manager Anton de la Merced assured runners and supporters of convenience: Coffee Bean and Starbucks will open early, parking will be accessible, and restrooms will be available 24 hours.
Innovations for Sustainability
Co-founder Meyrick Jacalan announced new eco-friendly measures, including collapsible cups for runners. “We are proud to be the first marathon in Cebu to use collapsible cups. This supports the mayor’s initiative for a healthier environment,” he said. A runners’ guide was also emailed to all participants, providing route details and event information.
Gun Start and Cut-Off Times
Race schedules have been set to ensure smooth flow and safety for all participants:
• 42K – Gun start at 12:00 a.m., cut-off time of 8 hours
• 21K – Gun start at 3:00 a.m., cut-off time of 4.5 hours
• 10K – Gun start at 4:30 a.m., cut-off time of 2.5 hours
• 5K – Gun start at 5:30 a.m., cut-off time of 1.5 hours
Mayor’s Call for Institutionalization
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival welcomed the sustainability initiatives, noting that reducing plastic waste is vital for the city. He also acknowledged donations of blinkers for traffic enforcers, underscoring the marathon’s role in supporting both sports and public service. Most importantly, he called for the institutionalization of the Cebu Marathon: “This event should be held every second week of January. With 12,000 runners, the impact is clear. It deserves to be a permanent tradition for Cebu.”
A Celebration of Cebu
With thousands of runners, hundreds of foreign participants, and strong community backing, the Cebu Marathon has become more than a race. It is a tradition that brings together government, private partners, and citizens in a shared pursuit of health, sustainability, and pride for Cebu.
This year’s Cebu Marathon signals a shift—not only in scale, but in responsibility. With sustainability initiatives in place, stronger city support, and growing international recognition, the race shows that progress can be measured not just in kilometers, but in care for the environment and the people who make the event possible.
