The Davao Women's Run PH is gearing up for a landmark event this January, with registration numbers soaring to new heights. Organizers have announced that the 2026 race has attracted a remarkable 3,500 participants, effectively doubling the turnout from its inaugural run.
A Surge in Participation and Community Support
Event manager Raniel Myka Rosendo shared the exciting milestone during a recent PEP Talks forum at SM Lanang, which was broadcast live on Kadangpan Digital. Rosendo expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming response from the Dabawenya community. "We are very happy and grateful for the support of the Dabawenyas," he stated. The inaugural event in 2025 welcomed 1,700 runners, a figure already considered significant for a women-exclusive race. The leap to 3,500 registrants for the January 18, 2026 event underscores the growing movement of women embracing running and fitness in the region.
Enhanced Experience for Empowered Runners
In partnership with Park Inn, the organizers are committed to delivering a top-tier experience. "We are all set and dedicated to giving the best quality running experience for the ladies," Rosendo affirmed. To improve the event, the race route has been slightly modified, though the main activity hub will remain at the SM Lanang premises. Looking ahead, Rosendo hinted at plans to gradually introduce longer distances in future editions, aligning with the run's core mission: to encourage women's participation in sports and support their personal running journeys.
The race will feature three distinct categories to cater to different age groups and fitness levels:
- A 1-kilometer run exclusively for children.
- 5K and 10K races open exclusively to women.
Building Sisterhood On and Off the Road
Fostering a sense of community is a central pillar of the Women's Run PH. Ahead of the main event, a free training run will be hosted in collaboration with the Podium Run Club. This session is scheduled for 5 a.m. on January 10 at the SM Lanang North Wing grounds. The initiative reflects the community's goal to create a safe, inclusive, and motivating environment for women of all ages and abilities to run, grow, and empower each other.
"Through shared journeys and support, we celebrate strength, confidence, and sisterhood—on and off the road," the organizers emphasized. The professional management of the race will be handled by RunRio and KinetixSports, ensuring a smooth and well-organized event for all 3,500 empowered participants.
