Tuesday, August 27, 2024 Travelers and sports enthusiasts should be aware of the upcoming Manila Marathon and Cebu Half-Marathon, events designed to not only showcase athleticism but also to promote the Philippines as a prime destination for sports tourism. The organizers have emphasized the dual purpose of these events: to elevate the profile of the country’s marathon scene and to draw both local and international tourists to various regions of the Philippines. The impact on the travel industry could be significant, positioning these races as flagship events that enhance the country’s appeal as a sports tourism hub.
Promoting the Philippines Through Marathon Events Rio dela Cruz, representing the main organizer RunRio, spoke at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum held at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) office in Manila. He outlined the goals of the forthcoming Manila Marathon on October 6 and the Cebu Half-Marathon on November 24, emphasizing their potential to boost tourism and establish the Philippines as a leading destination for marathon runners. Dela Cruz pointed out that countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore have successfully integrated marathons into their tourism strategies, attracting runners and spectators from around the world.
He expressed the hope that the Manila Marathon could become the Philippines’ flagship running event, drawing parallels to the Bangkok Marathon and similar events in Southeast Asia. With the race covering key cities such as Pasay, Parañaque, Manila, Makati, and potentially Taguig, the event is designed to highlight the urban landscape and cultural richness of the capital region. Impact on the Travel Industry The Manila Marathon and Cebu Half-Marathon are expected to have a notable impact on the travel industry by attracting both local participants and international visitors.
The events will not only bring attention to the host cities but also to the wider regions, encouraging travelers to explore other destinations in the Philippines. The races offer various distance options—5K, 10K, 21K, and 42K—catering to runners of all levels, which could boost participation and increase tourist numbers. The Manila Marathon and Cebu Half-Marathon are positioned to elevate the Philippines’ status on the global sports tourism map.
By establishing these races as annual events, the Philippines can attract a steady stream of international participants, much like the major marathons in other countries. This not only enhances the country’s reputation as a destination for sports tourism but also contributes to the global trend of combining travel with fitness and wellness activities. Dela Cruz emphasized the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the success and growth of these marathon events.
Coordination with the Department of Tourism, local government units, and eventually, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is seen as crucial in promoting the Philippines as a prime location for sports tourism. As the organizers work towards strengthening these partnerships, the potential for larger-scale events and broader promotional efforts increases. The Manila Marathon and Cebu Half-Marathon represent a strategic effort to promote the Philippines on the world stage, leveraging the growing trend of sports tourism to attract visitors and showcase the country’s diverse offerings.
With the right support and continued expansion, these events could become key fixtures in the global marathon calendar, driving both tourism and economic growth for the Philippines..
