The second edition of the Davao Women's Run PH concluded with thrilling finishes and record participation, showcasing the rising strength of female athletes in Mindanao. The event, held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the SM Lanang Premier parking grounds, attracted a field of 3,500 runners, more than doubling the inaugural year's turnout of 1,500.
Victory After a Long Journey
In the featured 10-kilometer race, Mea Gay Adialiaan Niñura from Kapatagan, Digos City, claimed the top spot with a time of 40 minutes and 57 seconds. Her victory was hard-fought, especially after arriving late from Marawi City where she had competed in another event just prior.
"I am grateful because even though I doubted myself about winning today, especially since I arrived late from Marawi, I was really overwhelmed by the result," Niñura shared in an interview. The former UAAP track star managed to edge out Lyka Catubig (41:33), who secured second place and topped the 19-24 age category. Yahsharah Daligdig (44:24) rounded out the podium in third.
Close Contests Across Distances
The 5-kilometer race provided equally exciting action, with Luffa Nova Carado setting a strong pace to win in 23:08. The podium was tightly contested, with Rachel Subere (23:27) and Eadgine Olorvida (24:30) finishing close behind, all within a minute of each other. Carado's win also led the 30-34 age group division.
In the 1-kilometer sprint, Ma. Veronica Suarez raced to victory in 5:56, followed by Nicah Alexandria Roque (6:13) and Sherlyn Sabani (6:26).
A Community in Full Stride
Organizers highlighted the event's success in attracting runners of all levels. "Mas daghan ang mga first-timers run (A lot of beginners ran today)," noted local race organizer Kenneth Sai of KinetixSports. The significant increase in participants and the competitive finishes underscore a booming women's running scene in Davao City and neighboring regions.
Niñura praised the event's execution, stating, "Ang ganda ng route. The organizers did a great job... The event was very well organized." She expressed her eagerness to return, citing the beautiful course, hospitable people, and disciplined atmosphere. She also extended thanks to event founder Nicole Dela Cruz for bringing the dedicated women's race to Davao.
The Davao Women's Run PH has firmly established itself as a key platform for promoting health, fitness, and sportsmanship among women in Southern Philippines, with its future looking brighter than ever.
