The Department of Tourism (DoT) and premier race organizer RUNRIO formally renewed their partnership to champion sports tourism in the Philippines.

The collaboration is the continuation of the nationwide running tourism initiative that unites fitness, culture, and travel under one dynamic banner, specifically their partnership for major races from this year to 2028.

Race routes will feature iconic sites such as Intramuros, Jones Bridge, Rizal Park, and Binondo, turning each run into an exploration of Filipino heritage.

“This is not just about running. It’s about telling stories -- about our culture, our resilience, and our hospitality -- through every race,” RUNRIO founder Rio de la Cruz said on Monday.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, on the other hand, stressed that their collaboration is in line with their goal of building a resilient tourism sector through sports.

"This partnership is a reflection of our vision to build a stronger, more resilient tourism sector -- one that embraces wellness, sustainability, and Filipino pride,” Frasco said.

“Through this, we invite the world to run with us, discover with us, and fall in love with the Philippines at every step,".

The partnership positions the Philippines as a contender for global recognition, with RUNRIO events most notably the Manila Marathon gaining certification from World Athletics and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races.

This opens the door for the country to host international marathon qualifiers -- an opportunity that elevates both its sports reputation and tourism economy.

Also, the partnership emphasizes the impact of the running industry as an emerging product of sports tourism.

It also aims to bring spotlight to local tourism and world-class quality of sports that impacts the local economy positively—helping DoT-accredited hotels and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and many more.

The DoT also pledged logistical and promotional support to ensure the success of upcoming races, particularly in emerging destinations with RUNRIO continuing its commitment to deliver world-class, community-based race experiences that engage local governments and small businesses alike.