The countdown has begun to one of the most anticipated events in Southeast Asia’s running calendar — the inaugural ASICS META: Time: Trials (MTT) Philippines set to fire off on Sunday at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite.

With 3,500 runners expected to participate, the event not only marks a major milestone for ASICS in the region but also signals the Philippines’ growing importance as a hub for high-performance athletic events.

From elite athletes to passionate weekend warriors, the diverse lineup of participants reflects the expanding appeal of performance-focused road racing. For many local runners, the event offers a rare opportunity to test themselves on a world-class course, backed by innovative gear and support from one of the world’s most trusted athletic brands.

But the MTT is more than just a 10K race — it’s a full-blown celebration of running innovation and personal progress.

“This is more than just a race — it’s about pushing your own boundaries,” said Ishina Buxani, marketing director of SONAK Retail Group, the official ASICS distributor in the Philippines.

“Whether you’re aiming to break into elite times or finish your first sub-hour 10K, the META: Time: Trials is a platform to chase your personal best.”

The timing couldn’t be more perfect. As the global running boom continues, the MTT series, which debuted in Málaga, Spain in 2022 and has since expanded to Thailand and Malaysia, lands in the Philippines at a moment when local interest in running is surging.