MANILA, Philippines – This year’s celebration of National Disability Rights Week took a powerful step forward as the Surigao leg of the National MILO® Marathon spotlighted inclusivity in sports, with persons with disabilities (PWDs) taking center stage—not just as spectators, but as participants and champions.
In partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), and local government units, the event became more than a race—it became a statement of belonging and empowerment.
Among the participants was 53-year-old Ritchie Malacan from Cabadbaran City, who completed her first-ever 3KM run. “At my age, this is my first run,” she said. “I was shy at first, but I told myself: ‘Let’s do this.’ Now I’m proud, excited, and happy I didn’t hold back.”
Another heartening moment came from 21-year-old Francis, a PWD, who ran alongside his father. “I joined so Francis could experience this and feel he’s part of something big,” said his dad. “He was smiling the whole time. If I could rate today, I’d give it a 10 out of 5.”
Over 300 PWDs, advocates, and supporters joined the marathon in Surigao—each stride a testament to the growing push for inclusive sports.
“This isn’t just about creating space—it’s about inspiring action,” said Carlo Sampan, Assistant Vice President for MILO® and head of MILO® Sports. “We’ve opened the starting line, but it’s the community that carries the movement forward.”
PSC Commissioner Walter Torres echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the role of collaboration in grassroots sports development. “Inclusivity must be at the heart of every sports program we build. That means seniors, women, indigenous communities, and especially persons with disabilities.”
With 16 more marathon legs scheduled this 2025, MILO® is inviting runners of all abilities to join the movement—not just to race, but to reshape the future of sports in the Philippines.
For more updates, registration details, and upcoming legs, visit Race Roster or follow MILO® Philippines on Facebook.