Against the backdrop of Kota Kinabalu’s famed coastal sunrise, seventeen Filipino elite runners from the 7-Eleven Run Series 2026 are set to represent the country at the Alliance Bank Borneo International Marathon on May 10 — the first time in 13 years that 7-Eleven will send its qualifiers to compete in a Boston Marathon–qualifying race.

The team will compete across the marathon, half-marathon, and 10-kilometer categories in what is considered one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic yet challenging road races.

Competing as Team 7-Eleven Philippines 2026, this year’s roster marks a departure from previous batches of qualifiers. Missing from the lineup are members of the Philippine National Team, who have traditionally bannered the squad. The change stems from a deliberate move by 7-Eleven organizers to exclude national team athletes from this year’s qualifying process, placing greater emphasis on developing a stronger grassroots-based team.

The change notwithstanding, the contingent still shapes up as a team to beat. This year’s roster includes five repeat qualifiers who have steadily built their reputations in the Philippine elite running community — Edsel Moral, Eduard Flores, Dickyias Mendioro, Maricar Camacho, and Nhea Ann Barcena.

Six returning qualifiers, all familiar names in the elite circuit, are also back in the fold: Bryan Quiamco, James Kevin Cruz, Roy Laudit, Rogen Aguirre, Jennylyn Nobleza, and Lizane Abella.

Rounding out the lineup are six new qualifiers — Lowegene Aliligay, Mark Mahinay, Michelle Zamora, Jamine Cruz, Asia Paraase, and 12-year-old Salt Balasan. Macrose Dichoso, who also secured a qualifying slot, will sit out this year’s campaign as she is expecting.

Team 7-Eleven Philippines 2026 will compete in either the full or half marathon events, except for Salt Balasan, whose age limits her to the 10km Open race.

Held annually in Kota Kinabalu, the Borneo International Marathon has grown into one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive road races. Known for its early-morning start and stunning coastal sunrise views over the South China Sea, the event combines scenic beauty with a deceptively challenging course.

Drawing thousands of runners from more than 50 countries, the marathon has become both a celebration of endurance and a showcase of Sabah’s vibrant running community.

The team, along with delegates from Philippine Seven Corporation, is set to depart for Kota Kinabalu on Friday, May 8, 2026, allowing ample time for race kit claiming and course familiarization ahead of race day.

“It has always been 7-Eleven’s advocacy to give grassroots runners the opportunity to compete internationally. Every time our runners take part in these races, they make me proud with their performances. That is why we remain committed to supporting them,” said Michelle Saludes, Project Head of the 7-Eleven Run Series and Section Manager for Exclusives and Events.

“It’s inspiring to see them bring their talent to the global stage and represent the country. We’re simply grateful to be part of that journey with them.”

 Launched in 2013, the 7-Eleven Run Series has evolved into a powerful grassroots platform for discovering and developing Filipino running talent. Through the program, runners are given the opportunity to showcase their abilities on the international stage while receiving comprehensive support from the organizers, including fully sponsored travel, accommodations, pocket money, and other race-related expenses.

Moreover, athletes who secure a top-three overall finish in their respective categories will not only receive the official event prizes but will also be awarded bonus cash incentives courtesy of 7-Eleven Philippines.

“At 7-Eleven Philippines, we are proud to continue our grassroots program that supports Filipino runners,” said Jose C. Ang Jr., General Merchandise Division Head and Managing Director for Digital. “Our goal has always been to allow them to grow, compete on the international stage, and ultimately help elevate the level of competitive running in the country.”

With a blend of seasoned qualifiers and promising new talents, Team 7-Eleven Philippines heads to the Borneo International Marathon ready to carry the country’s colors on the international stage once more.