Serious runners and weekend warriors invade the historic streets of Manila when the 2026 AIA Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series presented by ASICS celebrates its fifth anniversary with a race to remember on Nov. 29.

Rock ‘n’ Roll, the competition, which now has a theme of “Ito ay Atin, Sariling Atin”, unveiled this year's edition with the same six categories for all amateurs and elite participants

“Tayo ang nagsimula ng mass participation sport, napayagan po kami noon, so natuloy po kami. After five years, parehas pa rin po ang ating ingredients,” said Sunrise events president and general manager Princess Galura. “Good news, ang ating karera rito ay mabilis, flat ang course, at malamig kasi papalapit na ‘yong pasko. So maraming mage-enjoy dito.”

“This is more than just a race celebration. It is a celebration of Filipino identity, Filipino music, and the community that helped build Rock ‘n’ Roll Manila over the last five years,” she added in the event launched Tuesday, June 2, at Bulwagang Villegas inside the Manila City Hall.

Also present in the event were City Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso, Vice Mayor Chi Atienza, AIA Philippines marketing and partnership director Katherine Wong, ASICS brand director for Sonak Philippines Ines Preysler, and no less than National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.

The race will feature six of Cayabyab's hit songs for each of the categories: “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika” (42km), “Wala Kang Katulad” (21km), “Mamang Kutsero & Paraiso” (10km), “Limang Dipang Tao” (5km), “Da Coconut Nut” (1km kids) and “Kumukutikutitap (Remix)

Cayabyab is also the inspiration behind the medal designs.

“Kada kilometer, pumili kami ng kantang aaakbay diyan, unang una ‘yong mga landmarks… so talagang bagay na bagay ‘yong mga kanta do’n sa medals, talagang fit na fit sa Manila,” said Cayabyab.

Aside from championing the local music, Rock ‘n’ Roll is also certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), meaning the racers could use it as a qualification for international marathon tournaments.

For Mayor Isko, the event could boost Manila's tourism sector.

“This is a big happening for Manila,” said Moreno. “That’s why we would like to share the City of Manila to foreigners and locals. Ito ay lugar ng pagasa, oportunidad, kultura, tradisyon, at maaaring totoo na ang Maynila ay luma. Sa bawat gusali at kanto… ay may kwentong dala.”