Pokemon enthusiasts in the Philippines have plenty to look forward to as the series turns 30. There will be a series of noteworthy events around the country in the next few months.
One of the attractions is the Pokemon Run 30, a themed running event where participants become Pokemon Trainers. It will be held on October 3-4 at the SM Mall of Asia grounds. Runners choose their first Pokemon at the starting line, then they travel via exciting stations along the route, like a Pokemon gym, a Pokemon center and Pokedex challenges. At the finish line, each runner’s partner Pokemon will “evolve” alongside them. Participants can choose to either the 5 kilometre regular or 5 kilometre premium course. Registration commenced Tuesday night.
The event grounds will also include a Festival Zone with a pop-up Pokemon Center store, a “time tunnel” and an experience zone. There will also be Pikachu parades, meet-and-greets, photo places and sponsor booths for fans to enjoy.
Pokemon will also open its first ever pop-up store in the Philippines at SM Mall of Asia. It will run from October 2026 to January 27, 2027, and will feature special items, including a rare vintage-edition Pikachu plush that was manufactured for the 30th anniversary.
From October 2026 to March 2027, Pokemon caravans will be held in SM malls all over Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Fans may purchase official Pokemon products and collectibles, enjoy festive décor and inflatables.
Manila will also host another large event named “PokeXciting” on Jan. 23-24. The festival will also be held in four additional Asian cities – Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Singapore and Bangkok – blending entertainment, nostalgia and interactive fun for fans of all ages. A special Pokemon performance will also take place throughout the occasion.
Pokemon Company officials say the anniversary festivities are their way of thanking fans throughout Asia for three decades of support. The celebrations are open to both new and old fans, and will also reportedly contain unique stuff within the Pokémon GO app, they added.
