The growing popularity of running in the Philippines drew together an impressive mix of celebrities, television personalities, journalists, and fitness advocates as they joined the country’s first-ever ONE TOKYO GLOBAL Community Run, an initiative of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation aimed at strengthening ties between Asian running communities.

Actors Rica Peralejo, Patrick Sugui, and Kaori Oinuma laced up alongside fitness personalities Aubrey Miles and Troy Montero, proving that the movement toward healthier lifestyles continues to gain momentum among well-known public figures. They were joined by media personalities, creators, coaches, and members of various running groups, turning the gathering into more than just a fitness event—it became a celebration of community.

Held on 1 August at Blue Bay Walk Garden in Met Park, Pasay City, the event marked the Philippine debut of ONE TOKYO GLOBAL, a regional initiative connecting runners from the Philippines, Taiwan, and Indonesia with the renowned Tokyo Marathon community.

The morning began with a three-kilometer community run organized in partnership with Run With Pat, led by Coach Pat Rubin. The activity officially launched the ONE TOKYO GLOBAL Virtual Challenge, encouraging runners across the three participating countries to complete a 10-kilometer challenge through Strava from August 1 to 14.

The Manila kickoff also brought exciting opportunities for local participants. Three eligible runners were selected through a live draw to receive coveted race entries to the Tokyo Marathon 2027, while another 100 entries were earmarked for qualified participants across the regional virtual challenge, subject to the campaign’s official mechanics.

Beyond the race itself, the celebration continued with a gathering of fitness influencers and community leaders at VIP Golf in MET Live. Guests were introduced to the vision of ONE TOKYO GLOBAL by ambassador Mian Fujimura, who shared insights into the culture, traditions, and strong sense of community that define the Tokyo Marathon experience.

One of the event’s highlights was the Japanese-inspired Ema Wishing Wall, where attendees—including Aubrey Miles and Troy Montero—wrote personal goals and aspirations, symbolizing the connection between individual dreams and the shared journey of runners across borders.

Organizers said the launch represented more than the arrival of another international fitness campaign. It reflected the Philippines’ growing influence in Asia’s active lifestyle scene, where local runners, coaches, content creators, and fitness communities continue to inspire participation and shape the culture of running.

By bringing together Japanese traditions and Filipino enthusiasm, the event demonstrated how sport can bridge cultures while encouraging healthier lifestyles. For many participants, the first ONE TOKYO GLOBAL Community Run became not only the start of a virtual challenge but also the beginning of a possible journey toward one of the world’s most prestigious marathon races.

Notable attendees

• Aubrey Miles

• Rica Peralejo

• Troy Montero

• Kaori Oinuma

• Patrick Sugui

• Sam Coloso

• Martin Javier

• Jacque Manabat

• Migs Bustos

• Via Antonio