Nearly 2,000 runners and fitness enthusiasts from across the Ilocos Region gathered at Megaworld's Ilocandia Coastown on Sunday as the integrated township hosted AF Runs the North, a running event organized by Anytime Fitness that showcased the development's growing role as a destination for wellness, outdoor recreation, and active living.

Participants competed in the 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, 10-kilometer, and 21-kilometer race categories, with routes traversing Ilocandia Coastown's scenic coastal landscape. The 21-kilometer race extended to the Laoag Bypass Bridge before returning to the township, giving runners panoramic views of the coastline and expansive open spaces.

"We are delighted to welcome Anytime Fitness and the running community here at Ilocandia Coastown. Events like these bring people together while highlighting the unique character of our township as a dynamic destination here in Laoag City where wellness, leisure, and the outdoors seamlessly come together," said May Santos, head of sales and marketing for Ilocandia Coastown.

Beyond the races, participants gathered at the Race Village, where runners, families, and spectators celebrated the event while enjoying food, shopping, and other activities, creating a festive atmosphere centered on health, recreation, and community engagement.

The event reflects Megaworld's vision of developing Ilocandia Coastown into an integrated township that promotes not only modern living and tourism but also healthier and more active lifestyles through thoughtfully designed open spaces and community-centered activities.

The 84-hectare coastal development is being master-planned as Laoag City's premier lifestyle and leisure district, featuring residential villages, commercial and retail establishments, hotels, beachfront amenities, parks, and open spaces. Earlier this year, Megaworld launched the 19.4-hectare Ilocandia Beach Village, its first beachside residential community in Northern Luzon, followed by the introduction of the Ilocandia Beach Club along the township's 1.4-kilometer coastline.

Organizers said the event also reinforces ongoing efforts by Megaworld, local stakeholders, and the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte to promote sports, wellness, and active lifestyles while positioning Ilocandia Coastown as a premier venue for large-scale community and recreational events in Northern Luzon.