With celebrity guest Donny Pangilinan adding star power to the sold-out event, the EastWest Dream Run 2026 brought runners, families, friends, and furparents together for a morning of fitness, fun, and shared achievements.

For some, it was a chance to chase a personal best. For others, it was about completing their first race, spending quality time with family, or simply enjoying a morning outdoors with their beloved pets. And for many fans, there was the added excitement of seeing actor Donny Pangilinan in person.

More than 4,000 runners, families, friends, and fans gathered for the sold-out Cagayan de Oro leg of the EastWest Dream Run 2026, transforming the City of Golden Friendship into a lively celebration of health, perseverance, and community spirit.

Pangilinan, EastWest’s brand ambassador, was among the biggest attractions of the morning, drawing enthusiastic cheers from participants and spectators. Fans lined up for photos and selfies, while surprise encounters with the actor added extra excitement to the race-day experience.

But beyond the star power and festive atmosphere, the event carried a message that resonated with participants of all ages: every dream begins with taking that first step.
Every Runner Has a Dream
Organized by RUNRIO in support of the Department of Tourism’s Love the Philippines campaign, the Cagayan de Oro race marked the third stop in the four-leg nationwide EastWest Dream Run 2026 series, following successful events in Manila and Iloilo.

The race offered five categories: the 1K Dog Run, 3K, 5K, 10K, and 21K, welcoming everyone from first-time participants to experienced runners preparing to test their endurance.

With all categories sold out before race day, the event attracted participants from across Northern Mindanao and neighboring areas, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for running and active lifestyles in the region.

For many participants, the finish line represented more than a completed distance. It was a personal milestone—a reminder that progress comes from showing up, moving forward, and celebrating every achievement along the way.

The morning also belonged to families, friends, and furparents who came together to cheer for loved ones and share the experience. Whether running competitively, walking alongside friends, or participating in the dog run, attendees found their own reasons to be part of the celebration.
From the Starting Line to a Festive Finish
Participants traversed portions of the BCI Highway before making their way to the festive finish area at Limketkai Center, where the excitement continued long after runners crossed the line.

The race village became a gathering place for participants and supporters, offering complimentary taho, donuts, ice cream, and other treats. Runners also collected their race entitlements and loot bags while exploring giveaways, exclusive offers, and sponsor activations.

Music and games kept the atmosphere lively, giving participants time to relax, reconnect with friends, and celebrate their accomplishments after the race.

For families, the event offered an opportunity to make memories beyond the usual weekend routine. For friends, it was a chance to motivate one another. And for first-time runners, the cheers and encouragement helped make the experience even more memorable.

The result was a community celebration where personal achievements and shared experiences mattered just as much as the race results.
Celebrating the Region’s Top Runners
While the event welcomed participants of different fitness levels, the 21K division also showcased the competitive spirit of Mindanao’s running community.

Aialou Guinayon topped the women’s 21K division, while Mark Calamba Gumaya emerged as champion in the men’s category, leading a strong field of runners in the event’s premier distance.

Their achievements highlighted the dedication and preparation required to excel in long-distance running, inspiring fellow participants to continue pursuing their own fitness goals.
Bringing Dreams Closer to Home
For EastWest, the Dream Run reflects a broader commitment to helping Filipinos pursue their aspirations, whether through personal milestones, family goals, or long-term financial plans.

“At EastWest, our mission is to help make our customers’ dreams more attainable, whether that’s owning a home or a car, growing a business, achieving financial independence, or securing their family’s future,” said Martin Reyes, EastWest Chief Marketing Officer.

“Dream Run brings that same idea to life. The thousands who joined the event are a reminder that dreams come in many forms, but they all begin the same way: by taking that first step.”

“That’s why we’re thrilled to bring the event to Cagayan de Oro, and we hope to share this experience with even more communities across the Philippines in the years ahead,” he added.

The race weekend also coincided with the opening of EastWest’s new Limketkai Store, located just steps away from the event venue. The new branch reinforces the bank’s growing presence in Northern Mindanao and its commitment to serving customers in the region.

The event was supported by Filinvest, FDC Misamis Power Corporation, Filinvest Land, Inc., Visa, EastWest Ageas, Ford, Power Mac Center, Nature’s Spring, NVM SSI Supply Solutions, Inc. (Monde Nissin), Crest Health Distributor, DOLE Philippines, Grand Canyon MG CDO, Toby’s Sports, Nutribullet, Dyson, Columbia, Mizuno, Saucony, Mogu Mogu, Colgate, Palmolive, Chlorelief, Salonpas, Pond’s, Red Planet Hotels, Virginia, Pocari Sweat, Beita Shoes, and Quaker.
A City United by the Joy of Movement
The strong turnout further highlighted Cagayan de Oro’s growing appeal as a destination for running events and sports tourism, bringing together people from across the region for a shared experience.

From competitive athletes and first-time runners to families, furparents, and fans eager to meet Pangilinan, the sold-out race demonstrated the many ways sports can bring people together.

As participants congratulated one another, exchanged stories, and celebrated their accomplishments, the EastWest Dream Run became more than a sporting event. It became a reminder that dreams are not always about reaching the biggest finish line. Sometimes, they are about starting something new, making time for loved ones, building healthier habits, or finding the courage to keep going.

For the thousands who gathered in the City of Golden Friendship, every step carried its own story—and every finish line marked another dream pursued.

To learn more about the EastWest Dream Run 2026, visit www.eastwestbanker.com/dream-run-2026.