Puerto Princesa Marathon 2026 in Palawan brings runners to the heart of one of the Philippines' most stunning island destinations for the very first full-distance event on February 22, 2026. Held at Balayong People's Park amid the blooming balayong trees, this island marathon combines competitive racing across 5K, 10K, 21K, and 42K distances with the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Palawan. Runners from across the islands and beyond can expect a scenic course, festive atmosphere tied to the Balayong Festival, and a chance to experience Puerto Princesa's nickname as the City in the Forest.
Discover the Puerto Princesa Marathon 2026
The Puerto Princesa Marathon 2026 marks a milestone as the inaugural full marathon in this Palawan island gem, organized by the Tandikan Tri Team to celebrate running alongside the Balayong Festival. Set for Saturday, February 22, 2026, at Balayong People's Park, the event offers distances for all levels, from beginners tackling the 5K to elite athletes chasing a 42K personal best. Early bird registration, which ended November 15, 2025, locked in affordable rates, but spots remain available through the official online form and Facebook page.
This island marathon stands out by weaving running with Palawan's eco-friendly vibe, where participants dash past lush greenery and coastal views that highlight the region's UNESCO-recognized wonders. Unlike urban races, it invites runners to embrace the slower pace of island life, complete with local cheers and post-race festivities under the balayong trees in full bloom.
Event Dates, Distances, and Registration Details
The main event kicks off on February 22, 2026, with waves starting early morning at Balayong People's Park in Puerto Princesa City. Race categories include 5KM at Php1,500 early rate, 10KM at Php1,700, 21KM at Php2,000, and the full 42KM at Php2,500, all per the initial pricing before potential increases. Registration happens via a Google Form linked on the Puerto Princesa Marathon Facebook page, ensuring easy access for island hoppers and mainland visitors alike.
Note a separate Puerto Princesa International Marathon listed for May 31, 2026, which may draw international crowds, but the February edition focuses on local energy and festival ties. Runners receive essentials like official singlets, race bibs, and finisher medals, with longer distances offering additional perks such as timing chips.
Course Highlights and Island Scenery
The Puerto Princesa Marathon 2026 course starts and finishes at Balayong People's Park, threading through Puerto Princesa's tree-lined streets and waterfront paths that showcase the island's forest-meets-sea charm. Full marathoners cover a looping route likely passing landmarks like the Baywalk Park and Rizal Avenue, echoing past Palawan races that highlighted the city's green corridors. Shorter distances keep the vibe accessible, winding past parks and neighborhoods for a flat, fast profile ideal for personal records amid tropical breezes.
Runners get sweeping views of Palawan's karst landscapes in the distance, with the course designed to minimize traffic and maximize safety on paved roads. This setup lets athletes soak in the island's clean air and vibrant flora, turning every kilometer into a postcard moment of Palawan paradise.
History of Running in Palawan Islands
Palawan has built a running legacy with events like the 2016 Palawan Express Marathon, the province's first full 42K that drew over 1,000 participants past tourist spots from Mendoza Park along Rizal Avenue. That race set the stage for multisport growth, including IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa, whose courses from Baywalk Park to Iwahig Bridge highlight the city's scenic potential. The 2026 edition builds on this by partnering with the Balayong Festival, infusing running with cultural pride.
Local groups like the Philippine National Police and Coast Guard have joined past races, fostering a community spirit that carries into the Tandikan Tri Team's vision for inclusive island athletics. This history positions the Puerto Princesa Marathon 2026 as a natural evolution, drawing both seasoned marathoners and newcomers to Palawan's trails.
Cultural Aspects and Balayong Festival Ties
Tied to the Balayong Festival, the marathon celebrates Puerto Princesa's floral heritage with blooming pink trees framing the start line at Balayong People's Park. Participants experience Palawan's cultural mix of indigenous Tagbanua influences, Spanish colonial echoes in landmarks like the Plaza Cuartel, and modern eco-tourism ethos. Post-race vibes include local music, food stalls with island staples like tamilok and fresh seafood, blending athletic achievement with community feasts.
The event underscores Palawan's clean and green reputation, encouraging runners to respect no-trace principles amid the island's protected mangroves and bays. This cultural layer makes the marathon more than a race; it becomes a gateway to Palawan's harmonious island lifestyle.
Race Day Activities and Highlights
Expect a full morning of action on February 22, 2026, with aid stations stocked for hydration, medical support, and cheering zones manned by locals. Highlights include awards ceremonies under the balayong canopy, photo ops with finisher medals, and family-friendly zones for spectators at the park. Longer distance runners might tackle out-and-back segments toward coastal areas, while all finishers enjoy the electric atmosphere of Puerto Princesa's first dedicated marathon.
Family and friends can explore nearby spots like the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River during wait times, tying race day to broader island adventures. The Tandikan Tri Team promises a well-organized spectacle, complete with live updates via their social channels.
Travel Tips for Palawan Island Visitors
Fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport, with direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other islands making access straightforward. Book accommodations early near Balayong Park or Baywalk, such as eco-resorts or city hotels, to cut commute times on race morning. February weather brings dry, mild conditions perfect for running, but pack light layers for early starts and rain ponchos for surprise showers.
Local transport like tricycles and jeepneys keeps costs low, while grabbing fresh mango shakes or halo-halo from roadside stalls fuels pre-race prep. For international runners, secure a visa on arrival if needed, and confirm health protocols via official channels. Island hoppers should align the marathon with side trips to El Nido or Coron for extended Palawan magic.
Practical Information for Runners
Registration remains open post-early bird, with fees potentially rising, so check the Facebook page for updates. Prepare by training on similar flat terrain, hydrating with coconut water, and acclimating to humidity a few days early. Race packets likely include singlets sized during signup, with bib pickup the day before at designated spots.
Budget for extras like post-race massages or souvenir stalls, and follow traffic rules on the course for safety. Families can join shorter fun runs if available, making it a shared island memory.
Training and Preparation for Island Marathon Success
Build endurance with long runs mimicking the 42K distance, incorporating Palawan-inspired interval sessions on beach paths if training elsewhere. Focus on heat adaptation through tempo workouts, and carb-load with local-inspired rice bowls pre-race. Connect with the Tandikan Tri Team via social media for course previews and training tips tailored to Puerto Princesa's terrain.
Recovery post-race involves gentle walks to nearby mangroves or spa sessions, extending your island stay. This prep turns the Puerto Princesa Marathon 2026 into a triumph of body and spirit amid Palawan's wonders.
Imagine crossing the finish line at Balayong People's Park on February 22, 2026, medal in hand, surrounded by cheering locals and blooming balayong trees in the heart of Palawan. Whether chasing a personal best or savoring your first island marathon, this event promises unforgettable moments in one of the world's most beautiful settings. Head to the official registration form or Facebook page today, lace up your shoes, and join the running revolution in Puerto Princesa.
Verified Information at a Glance
Event Name: Puerto Princesa Marathon 2026
Event Category: Road running event with festival ties / first full marathon in Puerto Princesa
Organizer: Tandikan Tri Team
Dates: February 22, 2026
Duration: One-day event with multiple start times
Venue: Balayong People's Park, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
Distances: 5KM, 10KM, 21KM, 42KM
Early Bird Registration Fees (per person): 42KM – Php2,500; 21KM – Php2,000; 10KM – Php1,700; 5KM – Php1,500
Inclusions: Official singlet, race bib, finisher medal (all distances); additional perks for longer races
Festival Tie-in: Balayong Festival with blooming trees
Target Participants: Runners of all levels seeking scenic island marathon experience
%202026.jpg)