Vermosa Green Run, the pioneering advocacy event that rallied the community back to the tracks post-pandemic, is returning for its landmark fifth consecutive staging on June 28 at Vermosa in Imus, Cavite.

This time, the run that has attracted fitness enthusiasts, casual runners, elite athletes, pet lovers, and families out for fun and fitness is taking concrete steps to deepen the appreciation and commitment of the running community to sustainable green living and an active lifestyle.

The fifth edition of the Green Run, where immersion in nature and lush, green sceneries is one of the main attractions, is introducing more eco-conscious elements into the race experience and encouraging participants to get involved in long-term forest restoration efforts across the country. For one, running across the scenic Green Run route inspires runners to become advocates for conservation and sustainable lifestyles.

This year, the multi-level run – which features 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K running categories and a 1K Dog Run – is challenging fitness enthusiasts, elite athletes, families, and pet lovers to actively participate in localized waste reduction by bringing used PET (polyethylene terephthalate) water bottles or food containers when they register to avail of race kit discounts. The collected bottles will be turned over to the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) to be upcycled into eco bricks that will help reduce environmental impact and support sustainable construction and community practices.

The race shirts and singlets including the dog bandanas are also made from recycled PET bottles. “We want runners to feel – both literally and symbolically – that choosing to participate means choosing to support responsible resource use. Embedding sustainability directly into the race kits was a deliberate choice that reflects Vermosa’s values. It transforms a souvenir into a lasting reminder of conscious living,” said Kristin Raval-Ofilada, Ayala Land Project Development Manager.

Ms. Raval-Ofilada also announced that beyond the recycled race kits, this year’s Green Run encourages racing enthusiasts to participate as a group. “Every group of 10 participants automatically becomes part of Haribon Foundation’s Forests for Life Movement. As such, they will support native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities nationwide. Through this movement, Haribon brings together individuals, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests using a science-based rain forestation approach focused on planting and nurturing native tree species.”

The Forests for Life Movement seeks to create long-term ecological impact by ensuring that seedlings survive, grow, and mature into healthy forests. Restored forests help secure clean water, fertile soil, and stable climates that are the lifelines sustaining communities across the country, Ofilada explained.

Beyond environmental conservation, the Green Run remains rooted in holistic health, animal welfare, and sports excellence. Co-beneficiaries of Haribon Foundation Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project highlight the interconnectedness of planetary and community health, emphasizing that preserving natural habitats goes hand-in-hand with animal welfare and human well-being.

The Green Run will take place amidst Vermosa’s expansive, nature-forward open spaces, utilizing the world-class facilities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the region’s ultimate venue for athletic training and active lifestyles. True to its blueprint, the 2026 race will feature responsible hydration systems and stringent waste-reduction measures designed to inspire eco-friendly habits long after crossing the finish line.

Green Run 2026 is supported by Pocari Sweat, Merrell, Fitbat, Salonpas, Topbreed, Smart C, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Especial, Entrée, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, and Zert.