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Puregold launched the first leg of its Hakot Relay 2026 in Iloilo, building on the momentum of its successful 2025 debut. The opening stop delivered a lively kickoff while continuing the brand’s push to provide practical assistance to Filipino communities, particularly across the Visayas.

The event took place on April 25 along Iloilo Sunset Boulevard, where the Hakot Relay Iloilo combined its signature race format with live entertainment. Performances from Pinoy hip-hop artists Skusta Clee and Flow G added to the atmosphere, drawing energy from the crowd as participants took part in the activities.

Serving as the first of three legs scheduled nationwide, the Iloilo stop marked a broader rollout for the Hakot Relay in 2026. Attendees traveled from various areas including Bacolod, Cebu, Antique, and other parts of Panay to join the event.

Beyond the excitement of the race and performances, the initiative also addressed everyday needs. Many participants were able to take home essential grocery items, offering timely support as households continue to navigate rising fuel costs and increasing prices of basic goods.

Vincent Co, President of Puregold Price Club Inc., shared that the initiative reflects the brand’s continued commitment to creating community-driven programs that benefit Filipino households.

“We want to create experiences that bring people together while also delivering real value to our communities—something that reflects what Puregold stands for. The Hakot Relay is one way we’re able to connect with Filipinos by giving them something they can both enjoy and take home, especially at a time when basic needs matter even more. We look forward to sharing this to more areas and reaching even more customers,” he said.

More than a standard race format, the Hakot Relay takes on deeper meaning in today’s context, where rising prices and ongoing uncertainties have made everyday expenses more challenging for many Filipinos. In this sense, it serves as a timely response to the needs of families across the country. By uniting people through a shared activity while allowing them to take home essential items, the initiative reflects both a sense of community and tangible support.

“We’re happy to introduce the Hakot Relay to more regions this year, starting with the Visayas. It’s our way of giving back by creating something people can enjoy collectively, while also helping in a simple but meaningful way. Seeing that kind of response here in Iloilo makes this leg more fulfilling for us,” said Puregold Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad.

The Iloilo leg also underscored Puregold’s continued strength in mounting large-scale, on-ground experiences, building on the success of its inaugural Hakot Relay in 2025. Race waves, loot stations, and on-ground activations were carried out with strong organization, ensuring that participants were able to fully experience both the activity and its deeper purpose.

Runners crossed the finish line with finisher’s medals, grocery bags, and exclusive event merchandise, with select waves also receiving surprise item drops along the course. More than event giveaways, these take-home items offered relevant resources—something participants could use for their households in the months ahead.

As the series continues its nationwide run, Puregold builds on a concept that resonates for its relevance in today’s environment. With upcoming legs set for South Luzon and Metro Manila, the Puregold Hakot Relay 2026 reaches more communities, delivering a panalo experience that connects people together while responding to the everyday realities faced by Filipino households.