Vermosa Green Run 2026 Returns in June with Stronger Sustainability Advocacy and Concrete Ways to Save the Planet

Vermosa Green Run, the pioneering advocacy event that rallied the community back to the tracks post-pandemic, is returning for its landmark fifth consecutive staging on June 28, 2026 at Vermosa in Imus, Cavite.

This time, the run that has attracted fitness enthusiasts, casual runners, elite athletes, pet lovers, and families out for fun and fitness is taking concrete steps to deepen the appreciation and commitment of the running community to sustainable green living and an active lifestyle.

The fifth edition of the Green Run, where immersion in nature and lush, green sceneries is one of the main attractions, is introducing more eco-conscious elements into the race experience and encouraging participants to get involved in long-term forest restoration efforts across the country. For one, running across the scenic Green Run route inspires runners to become advocates for conservation and sustainable lifestyles.

This year, the multi-level run – which features 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K running categories and a 1K Dog Run – is challenging fitness enthusiasts, elite athletes, families, and pet lovers to actively participate in localized waste reduction by bringing used PET (polyethylene terephthalate) water bottles or food containers when they register to avail of race kit discounts.  The collected bottles will be turned over to the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) to be upcycled into eco bricks that will help reduce environmental impact and support sustainable construction and community practices.

The race shirts and singlets including the dog bandanas are also made from recycled PET bottles. “We want runners to feel – both literally and symbolically – that choosing to participate means choosing to support responsible resource use. Embedding sustainability directly into the race kits was a deliberate choice that reflects Vermosa’s values. It transforms a souvenir into a lasting reminder of conscious living,” said Kristin Raval-Ofilada, Ayala Land Project Development Manager.

Ms. Raval-Ofilada also announced that beyond the recycled race kits, this year’s Green Run encourages racing enthusiasts to participate as a group. “Every group of 10 participants automatically becomes part of Haribon Foundation’s Forests for Life Movement. As such, they will support native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities nationwide. Through this movement, Haribon brings together individuals, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests using a science-based rain forestation approach focused on planting and nurturing native tree species.”

The Forests for Life Movement seeks to create long-term ecological impact by ensuring that seedlings survive, grow, and mature into healthy forests. Restored forests help secure clean water, fertile soil, and stable climates that are the lifelines sustaining communities across the country, Ofilada explained.

Beyond environmental conservation, the Green Run remains rooted in holistic health, animal welfare, and sports excellence. Co-beneficiaries of Haribon Foundation Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project highlight the interconnectedness of planetary and community health, emphasizing that preserving natural habitats goes hand-in-hand with animal welfare and human well-bring.

The Green Run will take place amidst Vermosa’s expansive, nature-forward open spaces, utilizing the world-class facilities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the region’s   ultimate venue for athletic training and active lifestyles. True to its blueprint, the 2026 race will feature responsible hydration systems and stringent waste-reduction measures designed to inspire eco-friendly habits long after crossing the finish line.

Green Run 2026 is supported by Pocari Sweat, Merrell, Fitbat, Salonpas, Topbreed, Smart C, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Especial, Entrée, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, and Zert.

For more information about Vermosa Green Run 2026, go to https://ayalaland.myruntime.com/register  to register. 

Cebu’s Biggest Legal Community-led Marathon Is Back—and It’s Passing Through Three Cities

Runners and fitness enthusiasts are training and gearing up for a bigger and more immersive race experience as the IBP: Cebu Tricity Marathon returns in October 2026, at Robinsons Galleria Cebu.

 

Now on its fourth year, the marathon—formerly known as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Cebu Run—invites both the legal community and the general public to take part in a race designed to inspire racegoers of all levels. Participants can look forward to new categories, upgraded merchandise, and the much‑anticipated tri‑city route spanning Cebu, Mandaue, and Talisay, offering a dynamic course that challenges participants while showcasing the region.

 

Beyond personal milestones, the event continues to champion wellness and social responsibility. This year’s edition expands its impact by supporting new beneficiaries, including street dwellers and young cancer patients, allowing every kilometer run to contribute to meaningful advocacies.

 

Connectivity also plays a key role in enhancing the overall race experience, especially for runners who document and share their journeys. Ultramarathoner and content creator Doris Baguio Daño, also known as DB Runner, is among those looking forward to the event. “As a runner and content creator, staying connected during every race is essential. I can’t wait to document my experience and share every moment with my followers,” she said.

 

The event is organized by the Young Lawyers Association of Cebu, Inc. (YLAC) in partnership with Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), which supports the marathon through its robust 4G and 5G network. 

 

“We thank Smart for the continued partnership and support. With strong connectivity enhancing communication and safety, participants can fully enjoy this bigger and more exciting edition of our IBP Running Event,” said Atty. Michael Francis Hubahib, Vice President External at YLAC and IBP: Cebu Tricity Marathon head organizer.

 

Reliable connectivity helps runners stay informed, communicate with loved ones, and capture and share their marathon milestones in real time. Participants can also enjoy exclusive Smart load offers and raffle prizes during the event, adding value to the overall race‑day experience.

“We are proud to once again support this initiative that aligns with our commitment to fostering wellness and community. Smart is excited to be part of the participants’ marathon experience, delivering seamless 5G connectivity that helps keep them informed, engaged, and safe throughout their run,” said Christian So, AVP and Head of National Key Accounts at Smart.

 

Registration is open until August 31, 2026. For more information and updates, interested participants may visit the official social media pages of the IBP: Cebu Tricity Marathon 2026.

Home Credit Sustains Wellness Momentum and Brings Takbo #ParaSaLife to Cebu, Security Bank Supports

Manila, Philippines - Home Credit Philippines successfully concluded Takbo #ParaSaLife 2026 after gathering thousands of runners across its Manila and Cebu legs, reinforcing its advocacy for overall wellness and financial well-being. With Security Bank as one of the event sponsors, this year’s run highlighted how maintaining good health can help Filipinos stay focused, make sound decisions, and move closer to their life goals.

The flagship wellness run kicked off on February 1 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds, where close to 4,500, runners and pets joined the Manila leg. The event continued in Cebu on March 29 at Citi di Mare by Filinvest drawing around 1,500 participants and completing this year’s two-city Takbo #ParaSaLife series.

Takbo #ParaSaLife features race categories for runners of all levels, including a 1KM Pet Run, 3KM, 5KM, and 10KM distances. Participants from different age groups and fitness levels took part in the event, highlighting how staying active supports overall wellness and helps individuals stay confident in pursuing both personal and financial goals.

For Home Credit, promoting financial wellness goes beyond providing accessible financing solutions. Through Takbo #ParaSaLife, the company encourages Filipinos to look at overall well-being as an important part of achieving their goals, recognizing that being healthy helps people stay disciplined, think clearly, and make better decisions for their future.

“Takbo #ParaSaLife reflects our belief that overall wellness plays a big role in helping people move closer to their goals,” said Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of Home Credit Philippines. “When people feel healthy and confident, they are more prepared to make responsible financial decisions, plan ahead, and take meaningful steps toward the things they want to achieve. Through initiatives like this, we hope to inspire more Filipinos to stay active, stay financially ready, and do more #ParaSaLife.”

Security Bank supported the Manila and Cebu legs of the run as one of the event sponsors, sharing the same commitment to encouraging Filipinos to build strong habits both physically and financially. The partnership also highlights how staying active and saving regularly can help individuals prepare for the future with greater confidence.

“Security Bank is proud to support initiatives like Takbo #ParaSaLife that promote both physical wellness and financial awareness,” said Laurice Rachelle Lupisan, Partnerships Head, Vice President of Security Bank Corporation. “Taking care of one’s health and finances goes hand in hand. As Filipinos work toward their personal goals, we encourage them to also take simple steps toward financial readiness, such as building their savings and using the Security Bank App to manage their money more easily.”

Beyond the racecourse, participants enjoyed warm-up sessions, recovery activities, and interactive booths that created an engaging experience for runners, families, and pets alike. The event served as a reminder that small, consistent steps—whether staying active, managing expenses, or setting aside savings—can help people stay on track toward their goals.

With strong participation in both Manila and Cebu, Home Credit continues to strengthen Takbo #ParaSaLife as its flagship wellness initiative, with support from Security Bank in encouraging Filipinos to build habits that support both health and financial stability. Staying active through Home Credit’s Takbo #ParaSaLife and starting a savings account through the Security Bank App are simple steps that can help people move closer to doing more #ParaSaLife.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or get the Home Credit App from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.    

 

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).    

 

TECNO CAMON 50 Series Powers RUNRIO Earth Day Run 2026 in Davao, Turning Every Stride into a Better-Captured Moment

April 14, DAVAO, Philippines — TECNO officially joins the energy of RUNRIO Earth Day Run 2026 as the first leg begins in Davao on April 12 in SM Lanang, marking the start of a multi-city celebration that brings together movement, community action, and a shared commitment to a greener future.

Run for the Planet, Captured Like Never Before

More than just a race-day appearance, TECNO’s participation reflects what the CAMON 50 Series is built for: helping people capture real life as it happens. From fast-moving runners and finish-line reactions to wide community scenes and long-distance action, the CAMON 50 Series brings its Super Zoom FlashSnap capability into one of the most dynamic real-world situations for mobile imaging—sports in motion.

Whether it is a runner pushing toward the finish line, friends celebrating after a personal best, or families turning Earth Day into a meaningful weekend moment, TECNO is positioning the CAMON 50 Series as the phone that helps users keep the energy, emotion, and movement of the day in sharper focus.

New Wearables Join the Green Mission

The partnership also highlights TECNO’s growing smart lifestyle ecosystem through newly launched wearable products such as the Watch NEO and FreeHear 2. Together with the CAMON 50 Series, these devices support a more connected and expressive daily routine—whether users are training, running, listening on the go, or creating content from their day-to-day experiences.

Runnio Earth Day Run has long stood for more than fitness. It is a public reminder that collective action matters, and that everyday habits—showing up, moving together, protecting shared spaces, and advocating for better environmental choices—can create visible impact. By joining the run, TECNO is connecting its product story with a broader lifestyle message: technology should not only help people do more, but also help them engage more meaningfully with the world around them.

What’s Next: Manila Leg with Sarah Geronimo & CAMON 50 Street Party

Following Davao, the excitement continues in Manila on April 19 in SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds, where the next leg of the Earth Day Run will meet the launch momentum of the CAMON 50 Series in an even bigger way. TECNO will bring added visibility to the Manila stop as brand ambassador Sarah G is set to energize the event and help spotlight the spirit of movement, style, and better-captured moments. “We’re turning the Manila leg into a celebration of health, planet, and creativity,” added Ms. Phia, TECNO Marketing Manager. “Sarah G represents the energy and passion of every Filipino who stops at nothing — exactly what CAMON 50 stands for.”

Run and Win

As TECNO continues to build momentum for the CAMON 50 Series in the Philippines, its Earth Day Run partnership shows that the brand is not just launching a phone—it is entering the spaces where young Filipinos live, move, create, and connect. 

Following the successful Davao leg (April 12 in SM Lanang), runners can still register for the remaining Manila leg (April 19 in SM Mall of Asia), CEBU (April 26 in SM Seaside Cebu) via https://earthdayrun.org/. Participants across all legs will have a chance to win CAMON 50 series and AIOT products. TECNO’s Earth Day Run presence gives the CAMON 50 Series a unique platform to prove itself not only as a new smartphone launch, but as a device made for action, expression, and the everyday stories people want to remember and share. 

Around 4,500 Runners and Pets Join Home Credit’s Takbo #ParaSaLife 2026 Manila Leg for Wellness

Pasay City, Philippines – Close to 4,500 runners and pets gathered at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds on February 1 for the Manila leg of Takbo #ParaSaLife 2026, Home Credit Philippines’ flagship wellness run, marking the event’s second year.

The run, organized in partnership with the country’s elite race organizer RUNRIO, featured race categories for runners of all levels, including a 1KM Pet Run, 3KM, 5KM, and 10KM distances. Beginners, seasoned runners, families, friends, and fur parents took part in the morning event, which highlighted fitness, community, and overall well-being. 

Sponsors and Partners Behind the Success

The Manila Leg was supported by Slimmers World, Park Access and Security Bank, Home Credit’s gold sponsors which backed the event’s focus on fitness, health, and financial well-being. Pocari Sweat served as the official electrolyte drink, while Citadines Bay was the official hotel partner. Cignal and Pilipinas Live joined as the run’s official media partner. 

Additional partner brands provided race-day support through wellness booths and post-run activities.  These included ECPay, M Lhuillier, Dermesse,  Xiaomi, Hey! Salad, Fit Bar, MILCU, Leslie’s, Salonpas, Cristalino, Unilever, Rexona, Chef on a Diet, Locally, Birch Tree, Skintec, Everest Appliances, Meralco PowerGen, Rope PH, and DITO, which all contributed to a vibrant race village experience.

A Day of Wellness and Community

Beyond the races, participants joined warm-up sessions, recovery activities, and interactive booths throughout the venue. Finishers received tote bags containing hydration drinks, snacks, wellness items, and daily essentials from Home Credit and its partners. 

"Overall wellness is key to achieving financial confidence," said Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of Home Credit Philippines. "Through Takbo #ParaSaLife, we celebrate the importance of caring for ourselves. Every step, every goal, and every run strengthens not only the body but also the confidence to make empowered decisions in life and finances. When people are healthier and more balanced, they are better equipped to pursue their goals and do more #ParaSaLife."

Next Stop: Cebu

Following the strong turnout in Manila, Takbo #ParaSaLife 2026 heads to Cebu on March 29 at Citi de Mare, again in partnership with RUNRIO, Security Bank and Park Access. This leg will feature the same race categories and wellness-focused activities for runners and pets in Cebu. Registration is still ongoing at  https://bit.ly/49nCWDZ, 

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or get the Home Credit App from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.  

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).  

Last Chance for Runners and Fur Parents to Register for Home Credit’s Takbo #ParaSaLife 2026

Manila, Philippines – Heads up, runners! Lace up and mark your calendars as Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, brings back Takbo #ParaSaLife 2026, a community fun run designed to promote holistic wellness and active living among Filipinos.  

Happening on February 1, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, the event returns after a successful first run that drew thousands of participants from across Metro Manila. Organized by RunRio, the run gains even more momentum this year as it expands beyond Luzon, with a Cebu leg scheduled on March 29, 2026, at Citi de Mare, marking its first stop in the Visayas. 

Takbo #ParaSaLife is more than a fun run—it is a wellness-driven community event that encourages Filipinos to pursue balance in all aspects of life. Alongside the race, participants can look forward to wellness booths, interactive brand experiences, and educational touchpoints that reinforce Home Credit’s advocacy that financial well-being goes hand in hand with physical health, mental wellness, and meaningful community connections. 

“Helping Filipinos achieve financial wellness also means encouraging healthier and more active lifestyles,” said Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of Home Credit Philippines. “Through Takbo #ParaSaLife, we aim to create a safe and inclusive space where people can take a step toward better health while being part of a supportive community that shares the same life goals.”

SUN LIFE RACES TOWARDS A HEALTHIER TOMORROW AT LUAP’S LIFEST FUN RUN

Sun Life Philippines bolsters its health and wellness thrust as it proudly served as a platinum sponsor at the recently concluded LIFEST: InsuRUNce Fun Run, an event organized by the Life Underwriting Association of the Philippines (LUAP) in partnership with the Insurance Commission.

 

The event brought together hundreds of insurance professionals for a day of fitness, camaraderie, and advocacy for health and wellness. More than 400 Sun Life employees and advisors laced up their running shoes and joined the festivities, showcasing the company’s dedication to living its purpose beyond financial security.

 

“For Sun Life, health is an integral part of its mission to help Filipinos achieve not only a brighter future, but also a healthier tomorrow,” said JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. “Supporting events like the LIFEST Fun Run is a natural extension of our mission to champion living a healthier life.”

 

Participants also enjoyed wellness activities and a variety of booths set up by Sun Life and other companies who sponsored the event, celebrating the vitality and community within the insurance industry.

 

Sun Life’s involvement in initiatives like LIFEST Fiesta reflects its holistic approach to well-being. Beyond offering financial solutions, the company actively promotes programs and partnerships that encourage Filipinos to embrace healthier lifestyles. In fact, the company holds annual sporting events such as Sun Life Cycle PH, a family-friendly cycling event that features different categories for all skills and ages, and the 5150 Triathlon in Bohol, for more seasoned athletes.

 

Want to know more about Sun Life’s health and wellness initiatives? Stay updated by following @SunLifePH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit www.sunlife.com.ph for more information on its products and services.

Pru Life UK x REV* Team Up to Drive Community Wellness through Running

Pru Life UK, the country’s leading life insurer, has officially partnered with REV* to launch the REV Club Run*, a collaborative initiative that promotes health, wellness, and community building through running. 

This partnership kicks off a series of community runs scheduled from September to December 2025, bringing together individuals and groups in a shared commitment to active living.

“More than just fitness activities, community runs promote a healthy lifestyle, foster camaraderie, and create networking avenues across diverse groups,” said Kathryn Cajucom, Pru Life UK Head of Brand and Integrated Marketing Communications. 

Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the community runs cater to a wide range of participants and fitness levels, featuring formats such as easy 5K, interval runs, tempo runs, and long runs. Each event attracts around 120 participants, with certified running coaches on hand to help them train smarter and run better. 

 

“As more Filipinos embrace fitness and community-based events, Pru Life UK sees a valuable opportunity to engage with health-conscious individuals while supporting their wellness goals. Now more than ever, Filipinos can count on PRU as a trusted partner in securing health protection and financial empowerment,” Cajucom added.

 

For more information about the community runs, visit https://rev.com.ph/.

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS THIS YEAR’S STRIPES RUN 2025 WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Whether you’re chasing a new personal best, making memories with your kids and fur babies, or simply out to enjoy the run with friends, McDonald’s Stripes Run 2025 is the run that should be on your calendar to end the year!

Get ready for Stripes Run 2025 on December 7, 2025 at the SM MOA Concert Grounds! It’s more than a race, it’s a feel-good experience where families, friends, and fur babies run together for fun and for a cause.

Here’s why you and your family and friends should register and be part of Stripes Run 2025!

  1.   Everyone’s welcome!

Now in its 14th year, Stripes Run is all about togetherness. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast out to achieve your next goal, a casual runner enjoying the moment, a parent running with your kid, or a fur parent with your pet by your side, there's a spot for you in this race.

  2.   Sulit price!

McDonald’s Stripes Run 2025 is an event that lets you get moving, give back, and go home with something to show off and a story to tell. This year’s race kit includes a shirt, race bib, race socks, tote bag, and a whole bunch of exciting goodies from partner brands. Aside from the race kit, everyone will get freebies at the finish line.

  3.   Lots of surprises await!

Crossing the finish line at Stripes Run always comes with exciting rewards and this year is no exception! Participants will take home freebies and goodies from McDonald’s and brand partners, plus the very first Stripes Run medal! A special symbol of achievement you’ll be proud to wear after the fun run!

  4.   Run with purpose.

Proceeds from the McDonald’s Stripes Run 2025 will help raise money for the programs of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines, a non-profit organization that supports Filipino children by providing better access to education and healthcare.

  5.   All ages and paces.

McDonald’s Stripes Run 2025 is a non-competitive event that celebrates getting to the finish line any which way you prefer. Whether you’re walking, jogging, sprinting, or running , what matters most is that you’re enjoying the moment.

  6.   Easy registration

Registration is simple and easy. Just visit https://bit.ly/McDonaldsStripesRun2025, fill out your details, choose your race category and shirt size, agree to the terms, and pay your registration fee online via GCash, Grabpay or debit/credit card. You can have your race kit delivered to your home.

  7.   Connect and celebrate!

McDonald’s has always been a place where people gather for good food and good company, and Stripes Run brings that same spirit on the field. This event reflects McDonald’s commitment to creating experiences that bring people closer while promoting wellness.

Don’t be the last to join. Register for the Stripes Run 2025 now and choose your category https://bit.ly/McDonaldsStripesRun2025.

PUMA Philippine Half Marathon Series 2025 Kicks Off Nationwide with Strong Start at SM MOA in Manila

Manila, Philippines (October 6, 2025) — The PUMA Philippines Half Marathon Series 2025 officially kicked off in the Philippines with a thrilling start, uniting Filipino runners from across the country for its Manila leg at the scenic bayside SM MOA Complex in Pasay City. In collaboration with RUNRIO, the PUMA Philippines Half Marathon Series is a six-stage race spanning Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Celebrating the spirit of athleticism in every stride, PUMA Philippines Half Marathon Series rallies Filipino runners to unleash their energy and passion for long-distance running. Each leg showcases unique local locations while uniting the running community. The 21KM races are sold out in all cities, while slots for 10KM and 5KM are selling fast! Runners can choose their challenge and earn exclusive PUMA merch upon crossing the finish line for the upcoming legs:

Choose Your Distance, Claim Your Rewards

Runners can select from three distances, each offering official and exclusive PUMA merchandise to celebrate their achievement and participation in the multi-stage series. Whether you take on the 21K challenge, the 10K, or the 5K run, all finishers will receive a medal, a sleek race singlet, a personalized bib, and a packed loot bag. In addition, 21K finishers will earn a special finisher’s T-shirt to commemorate their accomplishment.

The All-City Legacy Challenge

A special highlight of the series is the All-City Legacy Medal, awarded exclusively to runners who complete all six races. This prestigious recognition honors dedication, consistency, and the determination to conquer every course in the nationwide series, cementing each finisher’s legacy in this historic movement.

Athletes Who Set the Pace

The Manila leg showcased an impressive lineup of PUMA signed athletes which included Christine Hallasgo, Junel Gobotia, and Jonna Abutas, who all served as inspiration to fellow runners throughout the race. Leading the charge was 2019 SEA Games women’s marathon gold medalist Christine Hallasgo, whose trademark determination lit up the course with a standout performance, finishing the 10KM category with an impressive time of 38:32. She shared her thoughts on how the unique PUMA Half Marathon Series impacts runners, “Each location brings different routes and climates, so if you're unfamiliar with the area, it takes time to adjust. That unfamiliarity can sometimes create pressure and affect performance, for better or worse. What’s truly rewarding is the chance to explore new places, experience different cultures, and build connections with fellow runners from across the country.” Grateful to be supported by a global brand like PUMA, she hopes that through this partnership, other athletes, especially the youth, will be inspired to keep working hard, so they too can be recognized and supported.

Junel Gobotia, an esteemed Filipino steeplechase athlete, who clocked a strong 17:21 in the 5KM category — once again proved his dominance in the local distance running scene. Both Hallasgo and Gobotia are now shifting focus to their preparations for the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, where they aim to once again make the country proud. Rising star Jonna Abutas also impressed with a solid 42:54 finish in the 10KM category, showcasing her steady form and reinforcing her reputation as a consistent podium contender. Her consistent form and competitive drive continue to make her one to watch as she gears up to join the Grand Finale at Clark this December.

Celebrate Strong Run Finish for 2025

The PUMA Philippines Half Marathon Series is a vibrant celebration of resilience and unity, uniting Filipino runners everywhere in a shared passion for sport as they conquer personal and collective milestones. Keep up with the PUMA Half Marathon Series 2025. Follow PUMA Philippines’ Instagram and Facebook account for the latest updates and releases.

For more information, please visit www.puma.com

First 116KM Community Run in the Philippines Logs 3.5 Million Steps to Champion Children’s Right to Safe Play

Manila, Philippines, 24 June 2025 – More than 3.5 million steps and over 2,500 collective kilometers were logged during the Move for Play: Infinity 116KM Run, the country’s first-ever open-road ultra-endurance community run. Organized by the non-profit organization FundLife, the event held from June 14 to 15 brought runners from Clark to Makati in a call to action for safe, inclusive, and accessible play spaces for children in under-resourced communities. The run coincided with the United Nations International Day of Play and was conducted on active roads and highways, requiring participants to navigate traffic, potholes, heat, and city congestion. The 116-kilometer route symbolized the difficult and often dangerous terrain many Filipino children must cross daily to access education and recreation.

A total of 31 ultra-runners registered to complete the full route, while over 40 additional runners joined for various segments. 20 completed the entire course in a feat of physical endurance and social purpose. Leading the finishers were ultra-endurance athlete Natalie Dau and community runner Cecille Wael, who crossed the finish line together at 6:23 a.m. after running for 16 hours and 12 minutes.

Dau, who also served as an ambassador for the campaign, used her platform to amplify the message behind the movement. Her race updates and advocacy posts reached more than 100,000 people organically. “It was a tough day—the heat, the distance, the traffic—but we all knew why we were out there,” said Dau. “Running 116KM was never about personal achievement; it was about showing up and showcasing what’s possible when we move with a clear purpose. I’m proud to support Move for Play, and I’ll continue using running as a way to raise awareness and help more children access safe spaces where they can grow, play, and just be free to move.”

Fellow finisher Wael was both personal and shared. “Running for those who can’t make this experience deeply meaningful,” she shared. “Pushing my limits while sharing the road with old friends and new faces reminded me of the power of community and collective action.”

Following close behind was Jonathan Ballogan, a proud Ifugao native and the fastest male finisher, who completed the run in 16 hours and 21 minutes. “This wasn’t just a test of endurance—it was about resilience and purpose,” he said. “I ran not only with my feet, but with the support of the people who supported me through the pain.”

The campaign’s success was made possible through a network of six community-based organizations and running clubs that extended crucial logistical and volunteer support. Among them was Mountain Goats Pilipinas, led by seasoned ultra-runner Joseph Sibal, also known as Papi Otep. “When I heard about the vision behind Infinity 116, it struck a chord. It wasn’t just another long run—it was about uplifting others,” Sibal shared. “That’s why I brought our Mountain Goats community to support. We believe running builds communities, and this run embodied that. It was a meaningful way to stand with FundLife in bringing play to children who otherwise wouldn’t have safe spaces.” 

In parallel with the Luzon-based run, a youth-led campaign in Dulag, Leyte engaged more than 280 community members in a series of local activities promoting children’s right to safe spaces. These included a 6.11-kilometer coastal community walk, an art-for-sustainability workshop involving over 50 children and youth, and a 1.16-kilometer advocacy parade during the Karumata Festival that concluded with a community play session. The Move for Play campaign brought together 14 running communities, five partner organizations, and four volunteer groups across Luzon and Leyte. The effort marked a significant milestone for FundLife as it laid the groundwork for its upcoming initiative, Safe to Move—a long-term campaign focused on building protected, dignified spaces for learning, movement, and play in climate-affected and under-resourced areas. Plans are also in motion to expand the Infinity 116 run into a nationwide series, welcoming not just runners, but walkers, volunteers, and play champions across the country.

“The Infinity Run showed how sport and purpose can intersect to drive meaningful action,” said Marko Kasic, Executive Director of FundLife. “We will continue moving until every child has a safe space to play, learn, and thrive.”

For more information about FundLife’s ongoing campaigns and upcoming activities, visit www.fundlife.org or contact the team at hello@fundlife.org.