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The morning air buzzed with excitement at the SM Mall of Asia Complex as thousands of runners took to the streets for the PUMA Manila Half Marathon 2025. Emerging as the day’s biggest story was newcomer Simon Enriquez, who stunned the field with an unexpected triumph in the men’s division, while veteran runner Maricar Camacho reaffirmed her dominance in the women’s race. Their victories marked a powerful start to the PUMA Philippine Half Series 2025, blending speed, endurance, and unrelenting spirit under the banner of one of the world’s most iconic sports brands.

A Breakout Victory for Simon Enriquez

Every race tells a story — and this one belonged to Simon Enriquez. With a time of 1 hour, 23 minutes, and 5 seconds, Enriquez surged ahead of the pack, outpacing seasoned contenders in a thrilling finale. His performance was not just a victory but a statement: that passion and preparation can push even an underdog into the spotlight.

Trailing him were Joram Lava (1:24:23) and Moiselle Angelo Alforque (1:25:22), who delivered their own impressive performances. But Enriquez’s quiet confidence and steady stride throughout the 21-kilometer stretch made him the talk of the morning — a reminder that the PUMA Manila Half Marathon is as much about personal breakthroughs as it is about competition.

The moment he crossed the finish line, spectators erupted into cheers, capturing a moment that felt bigger than sport — it was the rise of a new name in Philippine long-distance running.

Camacho’s Commanding Run

On the women’s side, Maricar Camacho proved once again why she’s a mainstay in the running community. With a commanding finish of 1 hour, 30 minutes, and 54 seconds, she led from start to finish, embodying the spirit of resilience and consistency.

Behind her, Jennelyn Isibido (1:37:11) and Danica Shasha Tan (1:48:34) rounded out the podium, each displaying sheer determination through the final stretch. For Camacho, who has been part of the local running scene for years, this race wasn’t just another win — it was a celebration of discipline, experience, and love for the sport.

Energy and Community Under the Manila Sun

What truly made the PUMA Manila Half Marathon 2025 unforgettable was the atmosphere. As runners streamed through the scenic routes of Manila, from the sunrise-lit bay to the urban stretches of the MOA Complex, the event transformed into a festival of endurance and camaraderie.

Supported by the Department of Tourism and powered by Gatorade as the official sports drink, the race became a showcase of both fitness and Filipino spirit. It wasn’t just about crossing the finish line — it was about the shared energy of thousands of runners moving as one, fueled by music, cheers, and that unmistakable PUMA pulse.

For spectators following from home, highlights of the race were shared widely on platforms featuring free sports live updates, giving fans real-time access to the electric action on the ground. The digital buzz mirrored the energy of the streets — vibrant, fast-paced, and community-driven.

Beyond the Half Marathon: 10K and 5K Highlights

The excitement didn’t end with the 21K main event. In the 10K men’s race, Rico Jay Patanao clocked in at 32 minutes and 44 seconds, setting a blistering pace that left Cymon Richard De Jesus (38:15) and Roilan Develasco (38:47) trailing behind.

Meanwhile, Christine Hallasgo dominated the 10K women’s category, finishing in 38 minutes and 32 seconds — a time that proved why she’s among the country’s elite runners. Maria Jonna Lina Abutas (42:54) and Brizeth Deriquito (45:18) joined her on the podium, adding more depth to an already competitive field.

In the 5K races, Junel Gabotia blazed through the course in 17:21, with Michael Dave Bognadon (18:57) and Manuel Tayoto (21:05) rounding out the top three. On the women’s side, Jolly Ann Ballester (24:01) crossed first, followed closely by Thea Marie Ba-ay (27:07) and Geraldine Rose Anonas (27:09).

Each category told its own story of grit and determination — from beginners chasing their first medals to veterans striving to beat their personal bests. And just like the main event, the thrill of competition reached viewers through free sports live coverage and social media buzz, turning the event into a shared experience for runners everywhere.

The Heart Behind the Event

Behind every successful race is a community of organizers and partners who bring it to life. The PUMA Manila Half Marathon 2025 drew support from a powerhouse lineup of sponsors including Cristalino Spring, Lanson Place, Mall of Asia, Citadines Bay City Manila, Devant, Salonpas, Rev Shokz powered by Digital Walker, Century Tuna, San Mig Light, Monde Nissin, Ciele Athletics, Milcu, Singlife, Unilab, Hey! Salad, Leslie’s, Universal Robina Corporation, Gu Energy PH, Dailyfix, and Galinco*.

Together, they created a seamless experience that celebrated not only running but also health, lifestyle, and local culture.

For those who couldn’t attend, following the event online through free sports live updates and social media highlights was the next best thing — bringing the excitement of every stride and sprint right to their screens.

The Road Ahead: A Nationwide Tour of Endurance

Manila was only the beginning. The PUMA Philippine Half Series 2025 is set to continue across the country, taking the same energy and passion to major cities: Davao (October 19), Cebu (October 26), Cagayan de Oro (November 23), Iloilo (November 30), and finally, the Grand Finale in Clark on December 14.

Each leg promises to deliver its own surprises and stories — from local heroes emerging on home turf to seasoned athletes chasing national glory. Runners across the Philippines are gearing up, inspired by what they saw in Manila, and eager to take part in an event that blends performance, community, and innovation.

Fans and followers can stay updated through free sports live streams and local coverage, ensuring no finish line moment goes unseen. Whether you’re a runner, spectator, or casual sports fan, these events keep the country’s athletic spirit alive and thriving.

A Celebration of Speed, Spirit, and Style

The PUMA Manila Half Marathon 2025 wasn’t just a race — it was a movement. From the determined faces of first-timers to the confident strides of champions like Enriquez and Camacho, it captured what makes running a universal language: endurance, passion, and heart.

As the PUMA Half Series continues its tour across the Philippines, it carries forward that same fire — a testament to how sports unite people, build communities, and redefine limits.

And for those watching from afar, tuning in through free sports live is more than just following a race — it’s witnessing the spirit of Filipino runners taking center stage, one stride at a time.

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So this happened today! My first official run since 2019. Magaling mambudol yung friend namin eh hahaha. Birthday 5K run daw. Gujab kayo, Runrio. Pinagod niyo man kami, happy and enjoy rin talaga. 🥰 SUPER… GANDA NG FINISH LINE! NO EME. 🧡💙

Ps. Nakalimutang patayin yung watch pero nasa 57 mins. something daw kami. Slowly but surely ang peg haha

For the first time since the pandemic started, I ran a race in person via Run Ortigas 2022!  It’s been so long since my last event that it felt like my first time again! Since 2020, I’ve only done a handful of virtual races and short runs.  They’re too far apart to even consider a routine making me doubt if I can still call myself a runner.  And recent personal events made even my fitness…