Estampador, Camacho rule SpongeBob Run 2026

MANILA, Philippines — Ritchie Estampador and Maricar Camacho were the fastest in the SpongeBob Run 2026 as the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati was turned into the wonderful world of Bikini Bottom on Sunday.

The two stood out in the 12,000-strong sea of yellow runners, topping the 10K race, with Estampador the fastest among the men with a time of 34 minutes and 18 seconds and Camacho clocking in at 42 minutes and 41 seconds to be the best among the women.

Behind Estampador in the men's division were Edgar Lee (34:51) and Neil Maramba (35:04), while trailing Camacho were Jocelyn Elijeran (44:48) and Elena Camu (48:39).

"True to what was promised, it was one of the most fun runs we've had and we're glad to share it not just with our usual fitness enthusiasts but also the longtime SpongeBob fans," said RUNRIO president Rio de la Cruz, who was humbled of the turnout and enjoyed the playful atmosphere of the event inspired by the iconic franchise that also had the support of Paramount and Nickelodeon.

Cavin Vidal also topped the men's 5K race in 16:52, followed by Kristoffer Troy Sison (18:45) and Edwin Garcia (20:50); while Melody Lantad claimed first place for the women in 21:58, with Michelle Manuel (24:49) and Joana Dres (24:53) rounding out the podium.

Mark Angelo Biagtan emerged as the fastest in the men's 3K after clocking 9:51, ahead of Patrick James Axon (11:42) and Ganimir Alvarez (11:48); as Jo Punay crossed the finish line first for the women in 12:03, followed by Paula Vina Tuazon (13:06) and Karla Marie Superiano (13:11) in this race which also had Healthy & Pure Brand as official hydration partner, Sip Plus as official electrolyte partner, Cignal Play as official media partner, Citadines Salcedo Makati as official hotel partner, Dentacare as official dental partner, and Slimmer's World as official gym partner.

Kids also joined in the fun through the 1K category, with Dustine Sicad winning the boys' division in 3:50, as Francis Jamero (3:52) and Karl Ivan Julius Cameno (4:10) made up the top three, while Xeanna Baarde topped the girls in 4:10, followed by Jonesa Rafol (6:01) and Cindy Labaro (6:37).

Beyond the finish line, runners were welcomed by a vibrant race village packed with activities, games, product sampling, and sponsor booths that kept the energy high throughout the morning.

The SpongeBob Run 2026 had Nutrifizz, Smart C, Oishi, Clyde Sneaker Care, and Everest as silver sponsors, and Wellspring, Mogu Mogu, Kiks Tamarind, Pan de Manila, Doogee, Jackery, IKYK, Skin Manila, Rexona, Rope PH, Giggles, ChloRelief, Beita Shoes, Kool Fever, and Salonpas, Lemon Square Bakery Treats, Fitbar, Quaker Oats, Birch Tree, Park Access, C2 Milk Tea, Daily Fix, and Chooey Choco as bronze sponsors. (Pool story)