As the country’s running era opens new doors for society to tap into their inner runner, 2025 promises to bring bigger and better events that test their speed, skill, and determination.
From major marathons to the best trail run routes, the year of the Snake will be an exciting opportunity for personal records to be broken, new destinations to discover, and to welcome new members into the growing running community.
Here are some of the best races that you should mark on your calendars for 2025:
Cebu City Marathon
Scheduled on January 12, 2025, the Cebu City Marathon (CCM) is a staple event of the Queen City of the South since 2008. Runners will enjoy the scenic, yet challenging expanse of the longest bridge in the Philippines, the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), all while reminiscing the city’s rich tradition, and a symbol of endurance, determination, and community spirit.
Cordillera Mountain Ultra
Set amid the beautiful backdrop of Mount Ugo in Itogon, the Cordillera Mountain Trail is one of the best trail running races in the Philippines. Events include a 50km Ultramarathon; 21km Mountain run; 2km Kiddie Trail; 10km and 5km trail run, and a Vertical KM and Canicross run.
Subic International Marathon
The SIM will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in February 2025 with yet another prestigious marathon experience for runners from all walks of life. Next year’s theme, “I Run for my Heroes,” aims to inspire participants to honor their personal heroes as they take part in either the 42km, 21km, 10km, or 5km races.
King of the Mountain Philippines – Hardcore
As the first 100-mile trail race in the Philippines, the Hardcore 100 Miles is, according to Ahotu, the gateway to the prestigious Hard Rock 100 and Western States Endurance Run in the US. It boasts a staggering elevation gain of over 10,000 meters, with runners traversing “earth’s natural canvas” of track trails, dirt, and gravel paths, stream and river crossings, grass and farmlands, forest trails, and hanging bridges.
Milo Marathon
As the pioneering marathon event in the country, the Milo Marathon is known for its National Finals where the best runners from all over the country gather to compete to see who’s best. This is where personal bests are broken, friendships are renewed, and new rivalries are made. While it emits a strong competitive aura, the Milo Marathon is an annual event that fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among runners from beginners to the elite.