MANILA, Philippines — Manila is tuning its strings and lacing up its running shoes as it prepares to welcome the global stage for the fifth historic edition of the AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila presented by ASICS. This year’s landmark staging promises to be an unprecedented celebration, merging world-class athletic endurance with the rich, rhythmic soul of the capital city.

  Under the new defining theme, “Ito ay atin, Sariling atin,” the event is stepping away from standard global playlists to spotlight a masterpiece collaboration with revered National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab. Runners from across the globe will sprint, jog and rock through a course scored by original Pilipino music, immersed in the authentic culture and fierce, vibrant spirit that defines Manila.

  “We are absolutely thrilled to host the fifth staging of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila, and we are delighted to once again shine a global spotlight on our beloved city and the beautiful landmarks we hold so dear,” said the Manila Mayor Isko Moreno during the official launch of the blue-ribbon event at Bulwagang Villegas, Manila City Hall.

  The launch gathered partners, members of the media, influencers, run clubs, and special guests, including Chief Marketing Officer of AIA Philippines Melissa Henson, Brand Director of ASICS for Sonak Philippines Ines Preysler, Sunrise Events President and General Manager Princess Galura, and Cayabyab himself.

  “This year is profoundly special. With our new theme, “Ito ay atin, sariling atin,” highlighting Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Filipino culture, and the vibrant spirit of Manila, we are inviting the world to experience the true heartbeat of the city,” said Moreno. “Through an incredible collaboration with our National Artist, the course will come alive with original Pilipino music and cultural expressions unique to our heritage. We warmly welcome runners from every corner of the globe to join us in this latest edition, to run our streets, and to share in a vibrant spirit that belongs entirely to Manila.” The milestone fifth edition places Manila in an elite lineup of iconic global cities that have hosted the legendary series. From Las Vegas to San Diego, Nashville, Madrid, Mexico City, Santiago and Taipei, each host city has historically injected its own distinct culture and energy into the Rock ‘n’ Roll experience.

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  “Ito ay atin, Sariling atin” is a celebration of identity. By weaving the masterpieces of our National Artist into the fabric of the race, we are giving international and local runners a sensory experience they cannot get anywhere else in the world. Manila isn’t just hosting a global race; we are inviting the world to run through our living culture,” added Moreno.

“This year is more than just a race celebration,” said 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.”   “Reaching our fifth edition is a monumental milestone for the RnR Series Manila. This event has always been about the intersection of community, music and miles. Cities like San Diego, Las Vegas, and Madrid have shown how running can capture the unique energy of a destination,” added Galura.

  One of the highlights of the launch was the unveiling of the official 2026 medals and shirts featuring the graphic artistry of 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 Cayabyab and Reujen Lista, bringing OPM to the center of the celebration and reinforcing this year’s strong Filipino identity.

  As part of the anniversary edition, organizers announced several new highlights for 2026, including 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, alongside a TikTok dance challenge and flash mob inspired by the iconic Filipino song “Da Coconut Nut,” plus special collaboration merchandise and collectibles celebrating Filipino music and Manila culture. The 2026 edition also reinforces Manila’s position on the global running stage, with the Rock ‘n’ Roll Manila race course continuing to be AIMS and World Athletics-certified, 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, further elevating the event’s international credibility while showcasing Manila as a world-class running destination.

  The 2026 AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila presented by ASICS will take place on November 29, 2026, with race categories including the Marathon, Half Marathon, AIA 10KM, 5KM, and AIA 1KM Kids. TMT