THE Manila leg of the National MILO Marathon gathered close to 20,000 racers of different backgrounds and abilities, intensifying its efforts to bring sports to more Filipinos. Held at the SM Mall of Asia grounds, thousands of runners took part in various race categories, including 3K, 5K, 10K, and 21K, making it one of the most inclusive and dynamic sporting events in the country.
“The National MILO Marathon is more than just a race— it is a platform that celebrates inclusivity, perseverance, and the power of sports to unite people from all walks of life,” said Carlo Sampan, Head of MILO Sports. “Through this event, we continue to open doors for Filipinos to experience the joy of running, regardless of age, gender, or ability.”
Runners from different walks of life, such as families, women athletes, and persons with disabilities, conquered the races. Among them were over 200 students from the Philippine School for the Deaf, who participated in the 3K and 5K categories alongside their families and teachers.
“For our students, participating in the MILO Marathon is an empowering experience,” said Teacher Karen of the Philippine School for the Deaf. “It allows them to push their limits and feel a sense of belonging in the sporting community. It’s inspiring to see their confidence grow as they cross the finish line.”
Senior high school students Mhigz Medrano and Aliyah Fernando also made their mark in the race after completing their first-ever race experience. Running alongside their families, they discovered the joy of active play and the thrill of crossing the finish line together. “This is our first time to join the race. It was such a fun experience for us to run alongside our classmates and family,” shared Mhigz through sign language. “We enjoyed it very much and we got our dose our exercise as well” added Aliyah.
Through its partnerships with the Philippine Sports Commission, the Department of Education, and the Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO continues to champion sports for all. These collaborations enable grassroots programs and initiatives that empower Filipinos—regardless of their background—to live an active and healthy lifestyle through sports.
Estampador, Camacho reign supreme in 21K race
Two seasoned runners, Ritchie Estampador and Maricar Camacho, emerged victorious in the 21K category in the men and women’s divisions, respectively.
In the men’s division, 23-year-old Ritchie Estampador bested his competitors with the time of 1:10:18. He was followed by second placer Roy Laudit who finished at 1:15:09, and third placer Mark Anthony Oximar at 1:17:23.
On the distaff side, running veteran Maricar Camacho still proved her athletic prowess by finishing the race at 1:32:16, outracing fellow elite runner Jho-Ann Villarma who finished at 1:43:21 and Charilyn Ayende at 1:49:20.
With their victories, Estampador and Camacho have automatically qualified for the 42K category of the National Finals in Iloilo on December 7.
After the Manila Leg, the race will set foot in Tanauan (March 16), Dumaguete (March 23), Butuan (March 30), Iligan (April 6), Surigao (April 13), Clark (August 3), Calapan (August 10), Malaybalay (August 17), Subic (August 24), Ormoc (August 31), Tagum (September 7), Odiongan (September 14), Kidapawan (September 21), Sorsogon (September 28), Zamboanga (October 5), Naga (October 12), Lucena (October 19), Kalibo (October 26), Ilagan (November 9), Dagupan (November 16), Tacloban (November 30), and Iloilo (December 7) for the National Finals.
Interested participants can register online for the upcoming legs by visiting: https://www.milo.com.ph/national-milo-marathon
For more information on the National MILO® Marathon, visit the official website (http://www.MILO.com.ph) or the MILO® Philippines Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/MILO.ph). Follow MILO® on TikTok (@MILOphilippines) and Instagram (@MILOPhilippines).
