UPAAS & Friends Join PAL Run 2026 in Singapore
On May 17, 2026, UPAAS members and friends came together at Singapore Sports Hub for PAL Run 2026, joining the wider Filipino community for a morning focused on wellness, camaraderie, and shared experiences.
Participants joined different race categories, including the 5KM and 10KM runs, with both experienced runners and first-timers taking part. The event, which began as a simple coordination between alumni and friends, blossomed into a vibrant and memorable morning that brought the community together—filled with eager meetups, energetic races, spontaneous photos and post-run conversations.
Throughout the day, the event encouraged new connections and fellowship, whether participants experienced their first UPAAS activity or joined PAL Run for the first time. Despite differing flag-off times, the warm and friendly atmosphere brought together first-timers and returning runners alike as one community.
Before and after their runs, the group gathered for photos across the grounds, proudly displaying the UPAAS banner. Even as runners navigated different distances and schedules, encouragement and excitement unified the experience, making the event enjoyable for all.
This year also marked UPAAS’ first time participating as an official PAL Run organization partner, reflecting growing interest in community wellness activities and broader engagement with Filipino-led initiatives in Singapore.
To capture the day from a fresh perspective, we also invited first-time participant Hiro Labatos to share reflections from both his inaugural PAL Run and first UPAAS activity.
A First-Timer Perspective
by Hiro Labatos
PAL Run 2026 Singapore: Flying High on Foot for 85 Years
PAL Run 2026 Singapore was more than just a race, it was a joyful celebration of Philippine Airlines’ 85th Anniversary with sneakers instead of wings. The event brought together runners of all levels, proving that whether in the skies or on the streets, PAL knows how to move people. The atmosphere was festive, with participants joking that they were “boarding Flight 5KM” and “checking in for the 10KM.” The only turbulence came when hydration for the 5KM runners was served after the finish line. Luckily, a banana was waiting along with the water, which felt like a quirky in-flight snack upgrade.
Aside from that, the event was smooth sailing. Volunteers cheered like cabin crew welcoming passengers, the race village buzzed like a busy airport terminal, and the scenic Singapore route gave everyone a first-class view. PAL Run 2026 showed that fitness, fun, and Filipino spirit can all take off together, proving that PAL’s legacy of bringing people together is alive and well, whether by air or by foot.
On a personal note, this PAL Run was truly special for me because it was my first time joining the activity with the University of the Philippines Alumni Association Singapore (UPAAS). Meeting fellow Isko and Iska alumni, and connecting with the larger Filipino communities in Singapore, filled the day with warmth and pride. The run became more than just a fitness event; it was a reunion, a celebration of shared heritage, and a reminder of how strong the bonds of community remain, even far from home.
As Philippine Airlines marks 85 years of connecting people across the world, PAL Run 2026 Singapore captured that spirit on the ground. It was a celebration of movement, community, and resilience, showing that whether we fly or run, we share the same journey of connection and pride.
UPAAS extends heartfelt gratitude to all who participated, supported, and contributed to making the PAL Run 2026 in Singapore a memorable and unifying experience. We look forward to future wellness and community events that continue bringing our members and friends together as one vibrant group.
Until the next run! 🏃♂️🏃♀️💙🇵🇭