Key takeaways
• Now on its 9th year, this annual run event drew 50,000 runners across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao
• Runners gathered at Filinvest City in Alabang, City di Mare in Cebu, and Crocodile Park in Davao
• Smart offered connectivity support, promos and on-ground activities

Over 50,000 runners gathered for the 2026 edition of the 7-Eleven Run, which was simultaneously held at Filinvest City in Alabang, Muntinlupa; City di Mare in Cebu City; and Crocodile Park in Davao City.

The race drew veterans and newbies alike. First time runner and Smart employee Eureka Ezra Rafailes, who joined the 3km category in Davao, said she takes pride in joining an activity that encourages a more active lifestyle among Filipinos.

First time runner and Smart employee Eureka Ezra Rafailes joined the 3km category in Davao City.

“Grateful for the opportunity to take part in the 7-Eleven run which aims to promote the community to get moving. I am happy to see Smart as one of the key supporters in making this happen. It’s inspiring to see our company invest in the well-being of the community,” she said.

Fellow Davao leg runner Mel Canaya likewise enjoyed the community spirit of the event. “Joining the 7-Eleven Run 2026 was a great way to start the year and my first run for 2026. It was a fun and energizing experience that highlighted the strong sense of community among the participants.”

In Cebu, longtime 7-Eleven race joiner Neil Ian Abueva shared that even on his 7th year of joining, the experience is still as fun and exciting as ever. “There were a lot of runners, which made the atmosphere lively, and the 16K route remained challenging in a good way. I really enjoyed the overall vibe and ambiance of the event, as everyone seemed to be having a great time, and the weather was perfect,” he said, thanking organizers and sponsors for continuously supporting events that help bring the running community together.

Finisher Mel Canaya likewise enjoyed the community spirit of the event in Davao City.

“Your effort in promoting an active and healthy lifestyle truly makes a difference. To the Philippine running community, you guys are amazing! The energy, camaraderie, and passion you bring to every run inspire me year after year. Let’s keep pushing, keep improving, and keep enjoying every mile together. See you on the next run!”

Powering the growing running community

As longtime partners in championing health and wellness, Smart and 7-Eleven have been actively supporting the growth of running from a niche activity to a sport that Filipinos of all ages have come to love.

“Running has really experienced a boom. There used to be not so many runners. Now, we have so many young people here. It’s amazing,” said Smart First Vice President Lloyd R. Manaloto, who joined the run's 21-km division in Alabang.

“This partnership gets better every year, and it’s good because we can see how health and technology can come together. For me, running is like prayer, like meditation. It's great for the health and great for the mind, and here we can see how can put technology to really good use,” Manaloto added.

Longtime 7-Eleven race joiner Neil Ian Abueva shared that even on his 7th year of joining, the experience is still as fun and exciting as ever in Cebu City.

Christian So, Assistant Vice President and OIC Head of National Key Accounts at Smart, also highlighted how as interest in running continues to rise, Smart and 7-Eleven have strived to evolve their partnership in order to meet that enthusiasm.

“Each year, we see thousands of Filipinos challenge themselves and support one another. Smart is proud to power that experience with connectivity and engaging activities. It always inspires us to witness how events like this bring people closer, and we are happy to play a role in making it even more memorable for everyone involved,” he said.

Over 50,000 runners gathered for the 2026 edition of the 7-Eleven Run, which was simultaneously held at Filinvest City in Alabang, Muntinlupa; City di Mare in Cebu City; and Crocodile Park in Davao City.

Year after year, Smart has leveled up its support for the event, powering venues with connectivity, offering exclusive promos, and creating engaging experiences for participants. Now on its ninth year, the collaboration reflects the companies’ shared commitment to building stronger and healthier communities across the nation.

Enabling digital lifestyles

Whether they are pursuing their passion for running, or sharing milestones online, customers can count on Smart to enable their increasingly digital lifestyles.

Smart continues to enhance its 4G/LTE and 5G networks and offer value packed services to support customers on the go, from sharing race updates and capturing memories at the finish line to staying productive and entertained wherever they are.

Smart’s participation in the 7-Eleven Run is aligned with its commitment to empower Filipinos through technology while promoting meaningful real-world experiences that bring communities together.