Melo Villareal
SM Mall of Asia Complex Welcomes 425,000 Runners in 2026
Running has become more than a fitness activity. For many, it is a chance to connect with friends, spend quality time with family, support meaningful causes, or discover new experiences.
Runners take off at the starting line of the Galaxy Manila Marathon at the SM Mall of Asia Complex, one of the many running events that bring together athletes, families and fitness enthusiasts of all levels.
At the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, runners can find an event that matches their interests, whether they are training for their first 5K, pursuing a personal record, running with their pets, or simply enjoying a morning outdoors.
From January to September 2026, the MOA Complex hosted 39 marathons and fun runs, attracting a combined 425,000 participants. The events featured a diverse lineup of competitive races, wellness activities, nighttime runs, advocacy campaigns, and family-oriented gatherings.
The growing variety of running events highlights how the MOA Complex continues to welcome different communities through fitness, recreation, and shared experiences.
From Competitive Marathons to Midnight Runs
Experienced runners looking to challenge their endurance had plenty of opportunities at the MOA Complex.
Events such as the historic Galaxy Manila Marathon and Santé Barley Trilogy Run Asia offered longer distances, including 21K, 32K, and 42K races. These events drew runners looking to test their stamina, improve their performance, and reach personal milestones.
For those seeking a different running experience, the HOKA Midnight Run took participants onto the roads after dark, blending fitness with the excitement of nighttime running.
Meanwhile, shorter-distance races such as the DailyFix Power Run, Home Credit Takbo Para sa Life, and Watsons x Unilab Share the Alaga Run provided accessible opportunities for beginners, casual runners, and families to participate.
Whether running for fitness, competition, or recreation, participants could choose an event that suited their pace and goals.
Fun Runs That Bring Families and Fans Together
Not every running event is about speed, distance, or competition.
At the MOA Complex, themed fun runs have introduced a more playful side to the sport, attracting families, children, and fans of popular entertainment franchises.
Doraemon, Spider-Man, Disney, and Pokémon-themed runs brought together participants who wanted to celebrate their favorite characters while enjoying an active day outdoors.
These events show how running can become an inclusive recreational activity that appeals beyond the traditional running community.
For families, themed races offer an enjoyable way to introduce children to physical activity. For fans, they provide a chance to combine their interests with fitness and community participation.
Running for Causes That Matter
Beyond fitness and entertainment, running events at the MOA Complex have also served as platforms for advocacy.
Various races supported causes related to charity, nationalism, sustainability, mental health, diversity, and inclusion.
These events let participants support initiatives they believe in while promoting physical activity and community engagement.
By pairing running with meaningful causes, organizers give individuals and groups opportunities to make their participation more impactful.
More Than a Race: The MOA Complex Experience
For SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), creating an inclusive running environment is an important part of the MOA Complex experience.
“We work closely with brands and race organizers to create opportunities for people of different ages, interests and fitness levels to participate,” SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim said.
“Just as important is providing runners with a safe and enjoyable environment before, during and after the event, whether they are here to compete, spend time with family and friends, or simply enjoy being active.”
The experience extends beyond the starting line and finish line.
After a run, participants can explore the complex’s restaurants and cafés, shop at IKEA, visit Museo del Galeón, or catch a movie at ScreenX. Those looking to relax can also visit the Wellness Zone or enjoy post-run care at a salon.
With hotels, retail establishments, entertainment attractions, and open spaces overlooking Manila Bay, the MOA Complex offers plenty of options for runners and their companions to enjoy the rest of the day.
A Place Where Running Brings People Together
The SM Mall of Asia Complex continues to establish itself as a destination for fitness, recreation, and community experiences.
Its diverse lineup of running events demonstrates how the sport can bring together competitive athletes, beginners, families, entertainment fans, and advocates for meaningful causes.
From a family-friendly 1K to a full marathon, the MOA Complex offers opportunities for people to stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the social side of running.
For runners looking for their next race or families searching for an engaging weekend activity, the MOA Complex remains a venue where everyone can find their own reason to run.
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