In a testament to the power of community and personal achievement, Garmin, the world’s leading sports and health smartwatch brand, hosted the first-ever Garmin Run Asia Series in Manila on December 1, 2024. 

With the theme “From Zero to Hero,” the series has inspired thousands across Asia to step out of their comfort zones and challenge themselves to set new personal bests. Held at the scenic Filinvest Events Grounds in Alabang, the event drew an impressive number of more than 7,000 runners, from beginners to seasoned athletes, uniting them in a celebration of health, fitness, and their love for running.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the first ever Garmin Run Asia Series – Philippines. It’s inspiring to witness the passion Filipinos have for health and fitness. Supporting each runner’s journey with Garmin technology is an honor, and we’re committed to providing more opportunities for the community to stay active,” shared Houston Chen, Senior Marketing Communication Manager, Garmin Corporation. 

Inspiring Transformations

The journey to the Garmin Run Asia Series began months earlier through a 10-week running training program in September offered by the Garmin Run Club. More than just a lead-up to the event, the Garmin Run Club represents Garmin’s commitment to fostering a culture of health, fitness, and continuous improvement through science-backed training programs, state-of-the-art technology, and an inspiring community of runners.

Participants had the opportunity to train with the best running coaches in the industry, including Coach Miguel Aldeguer of EZRC, Coach Patrick Rubin of Run With Pat, Coach Nylah Bautista of NewBound Triathlon Coaching, and Coach Ken Mendola of WeKenRun at various locations in the metro as they built their endurance for the coming race.

The Garmin Run Club empowers runners year-round, providing not only access to structured training but also opportunities to grow through organized group runs and exclusive events. 

The Garmin Run in Manila featured three race distances—5KM, 10KM, and 21KM—allowing participants of all skill levels to challenge themselves and achieve new personal bests. This event marked the debut of the Garmin Run Asia Series in the Philippines, a regional initiative spanning key countries in Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. 

The top 3 male and female runners were awarded for each running distance, whether 5KM, 10KM or 21KM. While they went head-to-head for the best places, there were exciting prizes to be won, including brand new Garmin watches.

The winner of the first prize in the men’s 21KM category, Karlos Aquino, took first place with an official time of 01:13:20, followed by Edsel Moral with 01:14:15 and Mark Anthony Oximar with 01:16:39, who rounded out the top 3 on the podium. The best female runners in the same category were Jho-an Villarma (01:42:18), Cecille Wael (01:43:21) and Joy Tiu (01:47:21).

Garmin Run Asia Series: Philippines 2024 Winners (Male, 21KM Category): Karlos Aquino, First Place (center); Edsel Moral, Second Place (rightmost); Mark Anthony Oximar, Third Place (leftmost)

Garmin Run Asia Series: Philippines 2024 Winners (Female, 21KM Category): Jho-an Villarma, First Place (center); Cecille Wael, Second Place (rightmost); Joy Tiu, Third Place (leftmost)

In the 10KM male category, John Ephraim Gay, Greco Olivan, and Marc Altura secured the top three spots, finishing first, second, and third, respectively. Meanwhile, Patricia Anne Quiday, Serena Simeoli, and Jo Sison emerged as the top three finishers of the women’s category.

Garmin Run Asia Series: Philippines 2024 Winners (Male, 10KM Category): John Ephraim Gay, First Place (center); Greco Olivan, Second Place (rightmost); Marc Altura, Third Place (leftmost)

Garmin Run Asia Series: Philippines 2024 Winners (Female, 10KM Category): Patricia Anne Quiday, First Place (center); Serena Simeoli, Second Place (rightmost); Jo Sison, Third Place (leftmost)

Sangsoek Lee Kangwoo, Jun Faduhilao, and Kristoffer Troy Sison secured the top three positions in the men’s category for the 5KM race. The leading finishers in the women’s division were Ashley Simone Teves, Gretchen Wetsche, and Marline Capones.

Garmin Run Asia Series: Philippines 2024 Winners (Female, 5KM Category): Ashley Simone Teves, First Place (center); Gretchen Wetsche, Second Place (rightmost); Marline Capones, Third Place (leftmost)

Beyond the Race: A Celebration of Fitness and Technology

The Garmin Run wasn’t just about the race—it was a full-day celebration of fitness and innovation. Participants explored interactive booths showcasing Garmin’s latest smartwatch models, including an exhibition of the Forerunner series, highlighting its history and features tailored to runners.

The Garmin Run Asia Series continues to inspire runners across Asia, leaving a strong message at its debut in Manila: with dedication and the right tools, anyone can go from Zero to Hero.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for runners, cyclists, swimmers and athletes of all levels and abilities. Committed to developing technology that helps people stay active and elevate performance, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Philippines’ website or Facebook page for more information.