Canon Photomarathon 2026 Returns to the Philippines, Crowns Von Cedrick Cunanan Grand Champion

Some photos capture a scene. Others capture a feeling.

At this year's Canon Photomarathon 2026, it was the latter that earned Von Cedrick Cunanan the top prize. When the competition revealed its theme, "Feel It," Cunanan immediately thought of two things many Filipinos know all too well, heat and hard work.

The civil engineer, competing alongside over 1,200 participants, headed straight to a jeepney terminal. There, he found the perfect subject: a jeepney driver taking a quiet moment of rest inside his vehicle under the scorching midday sun.

"I wanted to capture what he's feeling: the heat, the tiredness, even the weight of rising gas prices," Cunanan shared. "I wanted people to feel something the moment they saw the photo."

That heartfelt image earned him the Grand Champion title at Canon Photomarathon 2026, held on April 18, 2026, at the BGC Amphitheater in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

For Cunanan, photography has always been deeply personal. He started young, snapping family moments using film cameras and point-and-shoots. In college, his mother gifted him his first dedicated camera, sparking a passion that would eventually evolve into street photography. Although life led him away from the craft for several years, he found his way back in 2025 with the Canon EOS RP.

When he discovered Canon Photomarathon's return, joining was an easy decision.

"It was my first photomarathon and even my first photowalk," he said. "I just wanted to experience being part of something like this."

His winning moment also came with an incredible reward: a Canon EOS R6 III paired with an RF24-105mm IS STM lens, a major step up from his current setup.

After a seven-year hiatus, Canon Photomarathon made a highly anticipated comeback, transforming BGC Amphitheater into a vibrant playground for photographers, videographers, and content creators. This year's event introduced a new Video Category, opening even more opportunities for visual storytellers to showcase their craft.

Beyond the competition, attendees immersed themselves in Canon Creator Park, where themed setups for pet photography, cosplay, and bridal portraits offered endless inspiration. Workshops led by industry experts, including Marie Lozano, Aaron Gekowski, Gab Altonaga, Edwin Martinez, Ian Celis, and Paolo Ruiz gave participants valuable insights into wildlife, cityscape, filmmaking, and content creation.

Guests also explored Canon's latest imaging innovations and brought their favorite shots to life through on-site instant printing experiences using MegaTank Printers.

"What made today special was seeing so many different kinds of creators in one place, all chasing the same thing, a moment worth capturing," said Anuj Aggarwal, President and CEO of Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc.. "Canon Photomarathon 2026 reminded us that creativity grows when people are given the room and the tools to explore it together."

More than just a competition, Canon Photomarathon reflects Canon's ongoing commitment to supporting the country's growing creative community, offering aspiring and established creators a platform to connect, learn, and share their stories.

Winning entries and event highlights will be featured across Canon Marketing Philippines' official channels in the coming weeks. For more information, visit Canon Philippines' official website or download the Canon PH Delightful app.