Subic Bay gears up for IM doubleheader

The year 2026 promises to be a landmark year in Philippine triathlon history as Century Tuna and Sunrise Events Inc. (SEI) renew their partnership to stage not one but two of the country’s most iconic multisport events in Subic Bay — the 10th edition of the IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay and the 5th Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines.

In a momentous contract signing held recently at Century Pacific Food Inc.’s (CPFI) headquarters in Pasig, SEI founder Fred Uytengsu and CPFI executive vice president and chief operating officer Greg Banzon sealed the renewed alliance, signaling a bold new era for the sport in the country.

This milestone year also aligns with a series of significant anniversaries: Century Tuna’s 40th year, the 20th anniversary of the Century Tuna Superbods, and the highly anticipated return to the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, where the top male and female qualifiers from the Philippine races will earn their coveted slots.

With the international triathlon calendar quickly filling up, the 2026 IRONMAN races in Subic Bay — staged in partnership with NLEX and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority — are poised to attract a strong influx of foreign elites and age-groupers eager to compete in one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic and demanding endurance race venues.

Subic Bay’s strategic location, race-proven logistics and vibrant local hospitality continue to make it a favorite among international triathletes.

The IRONMAN Philippines will feature the grueling full-distance format: a 3.9km swim, 180.2km bike, and 42.2km run — widely considered one of the toughest single-day athletic feats.