Running is more than just a fitness trend. For many people, it's a way to celebrate personal milestones, challenge themselves, and reconnect with family and friends. That's the spirit behind the EastWest Dream Run 2026, which is making a bigger comeback this year with more race destinations and more opportunities for Filipinos to run toward their goals.
Following a successful debut in 2025 that attracted around 14,000 runners nationwide, EastWest is bringing back its signature running event with an expanded lineup that reaches even more communities across the country.
EastWest Dream Run 2026 Expands to Four Cities
Originally launched as part of EastWest's 30th anniversary celebration, the EastWest Dream Run quickly became more than just another race on the local running calendar. It evolved into a community event that encourages people of all ages to celebrate progress, perseverance, and the dreams they're working toward.
This year, EastWest has partnered once again with RUNRIO, one of the Philippines' leading race organizers, to bring the event to four cities:
- Manila
- Clark
- Iloilo
- Cagayan de Oro
The expanded schedule allows more runners from different regions to join the experience while promoting healthy lifestyles and meaningful community connections.
Manila and Clark Kick Off the 2026 Race Season
The first stop is Manila on August 2, 2026, at Filinvest City in Alabang, a destination known for its pedestrian-friendly streets, open spaces, and tree-lined roads that create an enjoyable race environment.
The event then heads to Clark on August 30, 2026, at the Filinvest Mimosa Plus Events Grounds, bringing the Dream Run experience to runners across Central Luzon.
Both venues are expected to welcome beginners, seasoned runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts looking to celebrate both personal achievements and shared experiences.
Race Categories for Every Kind of Runner
One of the highlights of the EastWest Dream Run is its accessibility. Whether you're training for your first race or aiming for a half marathon personal best, there's a category designed for every fitness level.
Participants can register for:
- 1K Dog Run
- 3K Run
- 5K Run
- 10K Run
- 21K Half Marathon
The event even welcomes pet lovers through its Dog Run category, making it a fun weekend activity for the whole family.
Registered participants will receive several race inclusions, including:
- Official race bib
- Race singlet
- Dog bandana (for Dog Run participants)
- Finisher's medal
- Loot bag
- Finisher's towel
- Exclusive 21K finisher's shirt for half marathon participants
More Than a Race, It's a Celebration of Personal Goals
While crossing the finish line is an achievement on its own, the EastWest Dream Run encourages participants to reflect on the bigger picture.
Some runners may be aiming for a faster time. Others may simply want to complete their very first race or enjoy an active morning with family and friends. Whatever the motivation, the event serves as a reminder that every meaningful journey begins with a single step.
Martin Reyes, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of EastWest, shared that the event reflects the bank's belief that dreams come in many forms.
"At EastWest, we believe that dreams come in many forms. For some, it's owning a home, starting a business, or securing a brighter future for their family. For others, it's crossing a finish line they once thought was out of reach.
Beyond making banking easier for Filipinos, we aim to support them in every step of their journey. The EastWest Dream Run reflects that same spirit of moving forward with purpose. We're excited to welcome runners once again as we celebrate the journeys, milestones, and aspirations that connect us all."
Coach Rio de la Cruz, founder of RUNRIO, also expressed excitement about the event's return.
"The response to the inaugural EastWest Dream Run showed how much people value events that bring together fitness, community, and personal achievement. We're excited to continue that journey this year and create another memorable race experience for runners of all backgrounds and abilities."
Registration Is Now Open
Those interested in joining can now register through the official EastWest Dream Run website.
EastWest credit cardholders can also enjoy a ₱500 rebate when they use their EastWest Credit Card to pay for their registration, with a minimum single-receipt spend of ₱3,000. The promotion runs until October 18, 2026.
Beyond race day, participants can also look forward to a lively race village featuring interactive booths, games, giveaways, and activities from EastWest and its event partners, including Filinvest, Quest Plus Conference Center (Manila & Clark), Mimosa Estate Plus, Visa, and EastWest Ageas.
A Run That Celebrates Every Milestone
The EastWest Dream Run 2026 goes beyond medals and finish lines. It celebrates the everyday victories that often go unnoticed, from taking the first step toward a healthier lifestyle to achieving a long-awaited personal goal.
With more cities joining this year's event and race categories that welcome everyone from first-time participants to experienced runners, it's shaping up to be another inspiring gathering for communities across the Philippines. Whether you're chasing a new personal record, running alongside your loved ones, or simply looking for motivation to stay active, this year's Dream Run is a reminder that every dream starts with the courage to begin.
