For runners joining Tabogon’s first “KEEP GOING” race, the finish line will also mark a cause as the town puts mental health, youth empowerment and drug-free communities at the heart of the Oct. 18 event.
The “KEEP GOING TABOGON: Run for a Cause 2026” will bring together more than 2,500 runners from the town’s 25 barangays and nearby local government units at Paseo Tabogon.
The municipal government is organizing the event with Bornwinner and Coco Running, with proceeds intended to support selected beneficiaries and barangays while promoting anti-bullying efforts.
Run Ambassador Jid Durano, a musical artist and social media personality, said the event was developed amid concerns over mental health and drug-related problems, including recent shootings in Philippine schools.
“We create a run for our cause, and not only to benefit the beneficiaries, but to empower people, that they would know that the communities are not alone, the runners are not alone,” he said during a press conference Tuesday, Sept. 2.
The advocacy will be incorporated into the race itself through an advocacy bib where runners can write why, what or whom they are dedicating their run to. Advocacy walls and banners will also be set up at the venue.
Association of Barangay Captains President Salome Bungabong said all 25 barangays are being encouraged to join, particularly to promote sports and fitness among the youth.
The event is also expected to support Tabogon’s growing sports tourism efforts by bringing runners and visitors who could patronize local accommodations, restaurants and other small businesses.
Municipal Tourism Officer Roel Rey Dichos said the influx of visitors could provide additional business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
“When we’re creating some event like this, we are not just helping the LGUs, the local government, but we’re helping our small entrepreneurs,” he said.
Tabogon has previously hosted the TWM 32.0 Tabogon Triathlon, rally racing and endurocross. Tourism officials are preparing local stakeholders for visitors, despite the longer route due to the damaged Tabogon-Borbon bridge.
Mayor Francis Salimbangon is helping secure partnerships with brands and neighboring municipalities, particularly in northern Cebu, Municipal Information Officer John Hortelano said.
Hortelano said organizers are also considering onsite registration. Participants may register through the Coco Running online portal.
The race will feature 1K, 3K and 5K categories, with registration fees of P750, P850 and P950, respectively.
All categories include an advocacy bib, finisher medal, advocacy singlet, post-run snack and Run for a Cause kit. The 5K package also includes a drawstring bag.
Race Director Joel Juarez, who heads Coco Running, said the route will feature uphill sections.
“I will assure everyone who will join, especially those coming from different cities and places, I will make this event a high-end event,” Juarez said.
Durano said race entitlements, including medals and singlets by AndotSports, will be delivered on time, with Juarez providing technical support.
The “Run for a Cause” series will also expand beyond Tabogon, with a Cebu City leg planned for Nov. 15 and a Maribojoc, Bohol run on Nov. 20.
Photo by Kaiser Jan Fuentes
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