Cebu City Proposes Stricter Regulations and Higher Fees for Marathons and Fun Runs
Organizers of marathons and fun runs in Cebu City may soon face significantly higher permit fees and more stringent regulations under a proposed ordinance aimed at elevating standards and policies for these physically demanding events. The measure, introduced by Councilor David Tumulak and endorsed during a regular session on March 24, 2026, seeks to replace outdated rules with a comprehensive system that addresses the growing costs and impacts of organized running races.
Revised Permit Fee Structure Based on Race Distance
Under the proposal, permit fees will be increased and structured according to race distance, with the following tiers:
- Up to 10 kilometers (km): P20,000
- Over 10 km but under 21 km: P50,000
- 21 km to under 42 km: P75,000
- 42 km and above: P100,000
In addition, organizers will be required to post a performance bond equivalent to 50 percent of the permit fee, which will be refunded only if they comply with cleanup and traffic management requirements.
Addressing Real Regulatory Costs and Environmental Concerns
Councilor Tumulak explained that the revised fees are designed to reflect the true cost of regulation, including expenses for traffic rerouting, personnel deployment, and post-event environmental management. The collected fees will be allocated specifically for traffic management, public safety, and environmental monitoring efforts.
Organizers must submit an application to the Cebu City Sports Commission (CCSC) for assessment. They are also required to obtain clearance from the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO), along with venue approval, a detailed traffic mitigation scheme, a comprehensive deployment plan, and a notarized undertaking affidavit to minimize congestion on major roads. Prior to any event, a Mayor’s Permit must be secured from the CCSC.
Additional Requirements for High-Impact Events
For marathons and ultra-marathons, which are considered high-impact international sporting events, approval from the City Council is also necessary. A key provision of the ordinance is the prohibition of single-use plastics, including bottled water and foam food containers. Organizers are obligated to install water refilling stations that utilize reusable or biodegradable materials.
Furthermore, they must deploy waste monitoring teams and ensure that race routes are restored to their original condition after the event. These measures aim to enhance sustainability and reduce the environmental footprint of large-scale running events in the city.
