Nestled in the heart of the Visayas region, the MILO® Marathon Iloilo on September 24 was a testament to the nation’s passion for running. Still aligned with the MILO® Active Pilipinas campaign, the event brought together over 20,000 runners from all over the country in a celebration of sports, camaraderie, inclusivity, and community.
Much like its previous legs, the Iloilo leg of the historic run had race categories of 3KM, 5KM, 10KM, and 21KM and welcomed runners of all walks of life— each with a different reason or purpose for attending the run.
Among the inspirational stories of runners that attended the MILO® Marathon Iloilo was that of father-daughter tandem Fhellix Somes and Fhel Ashera Somes. Fhel, a visually impaired 8-year-old was a first-time runner at the MILO® Marathon. Her father Fhellix shared that despite Fhel’s disability, staying physically active and joining community events such as the MILO® Marathon was important in building Fhel’s social skills.
“Kasi ngayon more on listening lang siya, talagang bihira lang siya sumasagot. (Now, Fhel is able to listen well, but rarely has the opportunity to speak up or converse),” he shared. By exposing her to the MILO® Marathon and letting her drink MILO® every day, Fhellix believes that he’s helping Fhel build her confidence and get one step closer to achieving her dream of competing in the Paralympics.
“These kinds of heartwarming stories serve as an inspiration for the brand to continue helping make sports accessible and inclusive to everyone. Kids like Fhel are proof that sports is a great teacher who can help bring out the champion in every one of us, and all they need is the right opportunities,” shared Carlo Sampan, head of MILO Sports.
The MILO® Marathon Iloilo proved to be more than just a race, but instead, a reflection of Iloilo’s spirit; a celebration of community and sports through the partnership with the municipal government of Iloilo. MILO® will continue to make running accessible and enjoyable for all Filipinos as it makes its way to the final destinations of the MILO® Marathon 2023 on October 15 in Tarlac and October 29 in Cagayan De Oro.
Whether you’re looking to set your personal best, stay active for fitness, or even just find time to spend with loved ones, the MILO® Marathon will have a space for you. Visit MILO® Philippines and RunRio on Facebook to stay updated on all things MILO®.
2023 MILO Marathon Iloilo Winners
In the 3K category for females, Jillian Mae Despe claimed the first-place title with an impressive time of 0:13:48, closely followed by Michlyn Garcia at 0:13:52 in second place and Niean Deza at 0:13:55 in third place. These women displayed incredible speed and determination, setting the standard high for future participants.
For the 3K category among males, Christian Dominic Hubag demonstrated his exceptional athletic ability by securing the first-place position with a remarkable time of 0:12:30. Rey Anthony Apolinario took the second spot with a time of 0:12:50, while Joven Mellezo clinched third place, finishing in 0:13:31.
Moving on to the 5K category, Mitche Benignos displayed her prowess by emerging as the first-place winner among female runners, completing the race in an impressive time of 0:24:03. Lescky Aboyo followed closely behind, securing the second spot with a time of 0:25:10, while Kim Villaruz finished third at 0:26:29.
In the male division of the 5K category, Rogen Aguirre dominated the field, taking the first-place title with a time of 0:19:04. Jazten Sajonia followed closely, securing second place with a time of 0:19:21, and Ramonito Walbar completed the podium with a time of 0:19:27.
Stepping up to the 10K race, Edna Magtubo emerged victorious among female runners, finishing with a time of 0:44:12. Mary Joy Barcoma showcased her exceptional endurance and speed, securing second place with a time of 0:48:37, while Criselda Del Rosario completed the race in 0:49:24, claiming the third spot.
Among male runners in the 10K category, Alfrence Braza demonstrated his exceptional talent, taking the first-place position with a remarkable time of 0:35:08. Stephine Dellariarte closely followed in second place, finishing at 0:35:29, while Jason Apolinario secured the third spot with a time of 0:39:27.
Lastly, in the highly anticipated 21K category, Cherry Andrin emerged as the fastest female runner, completing the half-marathon in an impressive time of 1:27:02. Artjoy Torregosa showcased her perseverance and speed, securing second place with a time of 1:27:42, while Stephanie Cadosale completed the race in 1:28:59, claiming the third spot.
Among male runners in the challenging 21K category, Jason Padayao displayed his exceptional running abilities, taking the first-place title with an astonishing time of 1:11:38. Jerome Casinillo closely followed in second place, finishing with a time of 1:14:19, while Maclin Sadia secured the third position, crossing the finish line in 1:14:32.
