From pavement to power: How Women's Run PH is inspiring a new wave of Filipina runners

GMA Network

5 days ago

Running has taken the Philippines by storm.
From early morning joggers in parks to weekend fun runs and marathons, more Filipinos are running than ever before.
Among the many organizations riding this wave of momentum is Women's Run PH, now the largest all-women's running event in the country's history.
On October 19, a record-breaking 10,610 participants will head to UP Diliman for the 2025 Women's Run PH — turning the track into a space not just for competition, but for empowerment.
For founder Nicole de la Cruz, the numbers are exciting, but the heart of the race lies elsewhere.
'We were able to motivate and inspire new runners to join the event — 40% this year are beginners,' Nicole said.
"The sense of fulfillment, the sense of achievement when they cross the finish line doesn't just end there — they carry that confidence throughout their lives.'
Since its launch in 2023, Women's Run PH has attracted participants from all walks of life, from seasoned athletes to women running their very first race. Among them are cancer survivors, women recovering from abuse, and runners living with physical disabilities.
De la Cruz recalled how one advocacy partner brought survivors of sexual abuse to the event.
"They never thought, [that] with all the challenges they've experienced, that they could still achieve something for themselves. This run gave them hope,' she said.
These powerful stories are what drive Nicole to grow the event, not just in size, but in reach.
Riding the running boom
From Metro Manila, Women's Run PH has expanded to Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, with requests pouring in from cities like Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, and Laguna.
While full races aren't yet possible everywhere, Nicole plans to hold free training runs in more communities to give more women the chance to start their journey.
De la Cruz sees Women's Run PH as part of the broader running boom sweeping the country.
"Social media plays a big role — one person shares their journey, inspires another, and creates a ripple effect,' she said.
"Post-pandemic, people are more conscious about their health, and running is an accessible way to stay active.'
This surge in popularity has also meant more visibility for female runners, breaking old stereotypes that running is a male-dominated sport.
"We're showing that women can take up space in these events — and that running can be a safe, supportive community for them,' she added.
While the record numbers are cause for celebration, Nicole's vision extends further.
Running with a purpose
Women's Run PH has also become a platform for health advocacy.
October was chosen intentionally to align with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, HPV Awareness, and Mental Health Awareness.
"October is special for women,' De la Cruz said.
'We want to inspire action, spread awareness, and empower women to take charge of their health," she added.
De la Cruz also hopes to see more Filipinas — regardless of age or ability — discover the joy of running, and perhaps one day, bring Women's Run PH to the international stage.
'Let's dream big,' she said. 'For now, I'm focused on making sure that every woman who joins us leaves knowing she is stronger than she thinks.'
—JKC, GMA Integrated News