The celebration of the Philippine Independence Day on June 12 was a lot more meaningful as over 25,000 runners across the globe took on the challenge to compete in the historic Manila Marathon 2026.
Spearheaded by premiere race organizer RUNRIO, this stage of the Manila Marathon was one for the books, because hundreds of participants bravely traversed the Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue, the first ever marathon laid out on one of the country's busiest thoroughfares.
Adding star power to this big sporting event were some celebrities, who were determined to test their personal limits by completing long distances. Check out some of the inspiring stories of your idols as they joined this spectacular racing event in this gallery.
Former 'T.G.I.S.' actress and mom of two Rica Peralejo took in the sights while running the race route for the 21 KM category for the Manila Marathon 2026.
Sharing her experience running this year, Rica said, “I am an Old Manila girl. Siguro din kasi it holds so much history that tells us much about our present culture, too. Sorry wala na po tayo more pics sa other iconic landmarks kasi tuwing ilalabas ko phone ko basang basa lang sya talaga ng pawis — 80% humidity kanina + feels like 30c — kaya nadiscourage ako kumuha ng more photos.”
'Pinoy Big Brother: Otso' finalist Kaori Oinuma was in a celebratory mood, after completing her goal of becoming a marathoner.
Relishing the experience of running 42KM along EDSA, the Kapamilya talent said, “Grabe yung ahon at lusong sa EDSA, and grabe rin yung cramps habang tumatagal yung race. There were moments when I was questioning everything, but somehow I kept moving forward.
“What made this race even more memorable were the people along the way. To the fellow runners who helped me during the run—thank you. From the sprays, salt candies, ointments, and gels that were generously offered, you helped ease the pain more than you know. Running may be an individual sport, but moments like these remind me how supportive the running community is."
Miss Supranational Asia 2024 Alethea Ambrosio kept her poise like a true beauty queen as she ran in the 10KM category.
Content creator Deegee Razon added another “half mary” medal (21 KM category) to his collection!
Model Rollo Espinos looking fresh, while running the 21 KM race route for the Manila Marathon 2026.
Princess Princena-Raymundo snaps a photo with actress Rica Peralejo.
Documenting some of his moments while running in the 21KM category.
Former Sangˈgre actor Jon Lucas explained in his Instagram post that running is a way for him to relax. Sharing his photo from the Manila Marathon 2026, the Sparkle talent said, “Hindi ka napapagod sumali sa takbuhan, kasi madalas ito talaga ang PAHINGA mo.”
Jon competed in the 10KM category, wherein he finished in the 24th spot in his age bracket.
It's a date for Sparkle actor Yasser Marta and girlfriend Robb Guinto! The showbiz couple ran together in the Manila Marathon and completed the 10KM distance.
GMA News captured some videos of the runners while in different locations along EDSA.