Pokémon’s Biggest Celebration Ever Is Coming to the Philippines—Here’s Everything You Can Look Forward To

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a Pokémon Center, running alongside Pikachu, or spending an entire day surrounded by Pokémon activities, 2026 and early 2027 are shaping up to be the biggest years yet for Filipino fans.

To celebrate the franchise’s 30th anniversary, The Pokémon Company has unveiled its most ambitious lineup of official Pokémon experiences ever brought to the Philippines. During a special preview in Manila, the company announced four major attractions that will roll out over the coming months, giving fans more ways than ever to experience the world of Pokémon.

Pokémon RUN 30 Brings Trainers to the Starting Line

Kicking off the celebrations is Pokémon RUN 30: Philippines Edition, happening on October 3 and 4, 2026 at SM Mall of Asia.

More than just a fun run, participants become Pokémon Trainers as they complete themed challenges inspired by the games. Along the route, runners will encounter Pokémon Gyms, Pokémon Centers, Pokédex tasks, and even watch their chosen partner Pokémon evolve after crossing the finish line.

The event also features a free Festival Zone with interactive activities, merchandise, gaming stations, Pokémon Trading Card Game experiences, and meet-and-greet sessions with Pikachu.

The Philippines Is Finally Getting an Official Pokémon Center Pop-Up Store

Perhaps the biggest announcement for collectors is the arrival of the Philippines’ first official limited-time Pokémon Center Pop-Up Store.

Opening at SM Mall of Asia from October 2026 until January 2027, the store will offer official Pokémon Center merchandise, anniversary collectibles, plush toys, trading cards, and exclusive products usually available only in select countries. Visitors can also enjoy Pokémon Trading Card Game tutorials and gaming experiences while shopping.

Pokémon Is Taking Over SM Malls

The celebration won’t stop at Mall of Asia.

Running from October 2026 through March 2027, the Celebrate 30 Years of Pokémon at SM Malls caravan will visit several SM malls across the country, including SM North EDSA, SM Southmall, SM East Ortigas, SM Marikina, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Davao, and SM CDO Downtown.

Fans can expect Pokémon merchandise, Trading Card Game tutorials, Nintendo Switch 2 game demos, Pokémon Mezastar, photo opportunities, themed displays, and plenty of Pokémon-themed activities for families and longtime fans alike.

PokéXciting! Brings a Massive Pokémon Party to Manila

The anniversary celebrations culminate with PokéXciting! in Manila on January 23 and 24, 2027, also at SM Mall of Asia.

Part of a five-city Asian celebration alongside Singapore, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok, the free event promises live entertainment, Pokémon parades, stage performances, meet-and-greet sessions, and exclusive Manila merchandise featuring the special red-costumed PokéXciting! Pikachu.

Visitors can also look forward to the High-Voltage Night Stage, one of the event’s biggest attractions, featuring music, performances, and large-scale stage production celebrating three decades of Pokémon.

A Milestone Year for Filipino Trainers

From its beginnings on the Game Boy in 1996 to becoming one of the world’s most recognizable entertainment franchises, Pokémon has built generations of fans across games, animation, trading cards, movies, and collectibles.

Its 30th anniversary celebration reflects that legacy, bringing together runners, collectors, gamers, families, and longtime Trainers through a series of official experiences unlike anything previously seen in the Philippines. Whether you’re chasing your first Pokémon memory or reliving childhood adventures, the next several months are shaping up to be the most exciting time yet to be a Pokémon fan in the country.

For event schedules, registration, and updates, visit the official Pokémon Philippines 30th Anniversary website. https://ph.portal-pokemon.com/30th/topics/pokexciting_news0/

Registration for the Philippines event opens on July 7 at 5:00 PM (Philippines Time).
Check RUNRIO’s official Facebook page to get details on how to register.

https://www.facebook.com/runrioinc

Interested members of the public can visit the official Pokémon RUN 30 Philippines page for more event information. https://ph.portal-pokemon.com/30th/topics/20260603_02/