Cebu City, Philippines – City di Mare by Filinvest burst into life on May 4, 2025, as more than 3,000 runners gathered for the Cebu leg of EastWest’s Dream Run 2025, the first time the Bank brought the event to the Queen City of the South.
From the break of dawn, the air was filled with excitement as families, kids, and even furry companions came together to chase dreams under the Cebu sun.
Organized with RUNRIO, the Cebu race carried forward the spirit of EastWest’s three-part national series, launched to honor the Bank’s 30th Anniversary and Filinvest Group’s 70th year. The celebration held deeper meaning in Cebu, where the Gotianun family, the founders of Filinvest, first built their roots.
Before the race began, runners gathered for a guided warm-up session led by Anytime Fitness to set the tone for an energized morning. From short family-friendly runs to the grueling 30K Dream challenge, runners of all ages and strides found their own triumphs along the course. The 30K distance drew strong interest from the running community, with many participants viewing it as a personal milestone and a test of consistency.
“We created the EastWest Dream Run to spark real connections and celebrate the dreams we share with our communities,” said Jerry Ngo, EastWest Chief Executive Officer and proud Cebuano. “Nindot kaayo ang akong gibati nga naa ko diri sa Cebu. The energy, the smiles, the grit, Cebu always has a way of making everything more special.”
Winners rose across all categories, from elite athletes to first-time runners stepping onto the podium for the first time. Here are the top finishers across all distances, recognized onstage for their strong performances:
| 30K | |
| MALE | FEMALE |
| Florendo Lapiz | Lizane Abella |
| Markevin Revilla | Shiela Mae Juban |
| Joseph Arnel Emia | Gericah May Rodriguez |
| 10K | |
| MALE | FEMALE |
| Darwin Lucaylucay Jr. | Cherry Andrin |
| Junray Pilones | Michelle Raniola |
| Eirwynne Gollodo | Justine Surabilla |
| 5K | |
| MALE | FEMALE |
| Arcelo Oswaldo Jr. | Diana Balungcas |
| Kent Loyd Gabino | Judith Oporto |
| Archie Corvera | Meriel Saga |
| 2K KM KIDS | |
| MALE | FEMALE |
| Kynt Ishan Abella | Veronica Moroña |
| Khean Ashton Kosuge | Louiz Althea Arciaga |
| Aikhee Kharlson Kosuge | Jaianah Marie Alimento |
| 1KM DOGS | |
| MALE | FEMALE |
| Jaybryle Orillo | Chesca Rago |
| Glen Renan Arias | Chenina Quirain |
| Lynel Haze | Jenny Rica Pardillo |
Philippine running icon and RUNRIO founder Coach Rio dela Cruz was also present at the starting line, showing support for the runners and the event. “What makes the Dream Run special is how it brings so many people together, kahit iba-iba ang pinanggalingan,” said Coach Rio. “Every runner carries their own dreams to the starting line, and Cebu truly embraced that spirit today.”
After crossing the finish line, participants made their way to a lively event village filled with music, raffle prizes, and interactive booths from partner brands. Nearby communities Amalfi and San Remo Oasis also joined the festivities. Runners enjoyed product samples from Gardenia, Chlorelief, Salonpas, GHY Trading Solutions, Jasmine, and Maison Ichipan, while ParkAccess added to the excitement with gift certificates and discount vouchers.
“As we mark 30 years, we want to keep creating spaces where people can dream bigger, move stronger, and celebrate life,” said Ngo. “Salamat, Cebu, for making today unforgettable.”
The series now heads to its final stop in Manila, happening at Filinvest Alabang on June 15, 2025. If you’re still on the fence, now’s the perfect time to take that first step. Register today at www.eastwestbanker.com/dream-run2025
The EastWest Dream Run 2025 was actually my first-ever fun run. If you’re in Manila, register now!
