The Philippine Trail Running Association (PHILTRA) enters 2026 with a system-driven approach, building on a breakthrough 2025 that saw Filipino athletes reach podiums abroad and earn consistent top-10 finishes across the region.
PHILTRA framed the year ahead as a consolidation phase, aiming to convert recent successes into sustainable performance pipelines. “Since 2022, we’ve focused on core systems like training, selection, and competition exposure,” said former PHILTRA secretary general Tin Ferrera. “Seeing that work translate into results last year has been encouraging.”
The 2026 roadmap focuses on raising competitive standards, widening regional access, supporting women and youth athletes, and integrating sustainability into all programs. PHILTRA’s strategy is no longer just about qualifying; it is about contending consistently at the highest levels.
PHILTRA eyes long-term system growth
The association has prioritized four key areas for 2026: regional expansion of structured coaching and competitions, environmental sustainability with responsible event operations and trail conservation, stronger support for women athletes, and expanded global engagement with international trail circuits.
Major competitions for the national delegation include the Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships (APTRC) in China this November, targeting 25 athletes and six officials, with a focus on a strong Under-23 squad. The Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup (SEATRC) in Indonesia in July will aim to sustain the Philippines’ regional leadership after 17 medals in 2024, including six golds.
Other international events include the HK100 World Trail Majors in Hong Kong in January, the 9 Dragons Asia Trail Master in February, and the UTMB World Cup in France in August. Domestically, the Philippine National Trail Running Championship in Antique in April will serve as the national finals for 2025 qualifiers, with regional events also promoting tourism and showcasing the country’s trails.
Batang PHILTRA, a nationwide youth initiative, will identify and support trail runners under 16, offering training camps, structured coaching, and competition exposure to build long-term athlete pathways.
PHILTRA will also implement a year-long national training program to monitor performance and prepare athletes for major regional and international championships. The association’s 2026 direction reflects a shift from short-term results to a sustainable national trail-running ecosystem, balancing athlete development, women and youth participation, regional access, and environmental responsibility.
Filipino athletes make waves at HK100 Ultra
The 2026 Hong Kong 100 Ultra Marathon from January 22-25 saw Filipinos dominate with multiple top-10 finishes. John Ray Onifa placed fifth in the 100K, while Elizabeth Dangadang finished eighth. Romnick Tongkaling secured eighth in the 50K, and Arnie Macaneras contributed depth with fifth in the 30K and eighth in the Grand Sam.
PHILTRA enters 2026 with consistency, depth, and long-term development at the forefront, ensuring Filipino trail runners can compete and contend on the international stage while nurturing the next generation.