VIA GRAPHIC PLUS — Thousands of runners gathered at UP Diliman in Quezon City last April 26 for the 15th edition of Run for Wellness. Organized by Southstar Drug, the event proved to be more than just a fun run but a powerful celebration of movement, community, and the long-term commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
From elite runners to newbies and hobbyists, Run for Wellness 2026 highlighted how wellness is a personal journey. It featured 3K, 5K, and 10K categories, each designed to encourage participants at every fitness level to find their own pace.
“Run for Wellness has always been part of Southstar Drug’s commitment to make health and wellness more accessible and encouraging for Filipinos,” said Thaddeus Sanchez, General Manager of Southstar Drug “Whether someone is running their first 3K or aiming for a new personal best, what matters is that they showed up for their health. That is already something worth celebrating.”
As part of its advocacy for health and wellness, Southstar Drug together with Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. donated Php 1,000,000 to the UP Diliman Health Service under the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs (OVCCA). This was received by Vice Chancellor Jerwin Agpaoa and UP Diliman Health Services Director Dr. Olivia Basuel.
Celebrating big and small wins
While some participants broke their personal records in terms of speed or distance, first-timers and beginner runners marked the start (or the continuation) of their personal wellness journeys at the event.
Among the 10K finishers was 54-year-old Norlita from Quezon City. According to her, this year’s Run for Wellness was the first fun run she joined, proving that it is never too late to chase one’s fitness goals. “I’m just happy I was able to finish it,” she said. “I aim to remain consistent with walking and jogging regularly for my health.”
Vicky, who crossed the 3K finish line alongside her husband and daughter, said joining the event was part of their family’s goal to join a running event once a month. “We have our daughter join so she can build endurance since she’s also sporty and active,” she said.
Adding to the vibrant energy during the event were running groups and barkadas that showed up, underscoring the ever-growing running culture in the metro. “Our friends who are runners invited us to join today and we accepted the challenge,” said John Michael who ran the 5K category with his wife both as first-timers. “After this, we plan to continue running and also, eating healthier.”
Runners who secured their spots on the podium for the 3K, 5K, and 10K categories each earned well-deserved medals and Robinsons Gift Certificates from Southstar Drug. Among them is Sonny Wagdos, the holder of the Philippine national record in marathon, who placed first in the male 10K category with a time of 32:23.
When asked about his advice to beginner runners and aspiring marathoners, Wagdos highlighted the importance of preparation, consistency in training, and sufficient sleep for optimum performance. “Mag-set ka lang ng goal and ‘yun na ang magiging motivation mo everyday para ‘pag nagta-training ka, gaganahan ka,” he added.
Run for Wellness continues to bring together people from different fitness levels and backgrounds under one shared goal: to take one step closer to better health.
Southstar Drug will bring the next leg of Run for Wellness 2026 to Naga City. Registration details and updates will be announced soon through Southstar Drug’s official social media pages.
