The Rise of the Running Community in the Philippines: A Personal Journey
- Patrick Rubin
- Mar 7, 2024
- 3 min read
When I first laced up my running shoes during the pandemic, the running scene in the Philippines felt like uncharted territory. Finding fellow runners, groups to join, or even a space to share the joy and progress of each run was a challenge. Running, at that time, was a solitary endeavor for many, including myself.
Fast forward to 2023, a trip to Los Angeles to run the city’s famed marathon opened my eyes to what a vibrant running community could look like. A pre-marathon shakeout run with the Koreatown Run Club (KRC) transformed my perspective. Despite being a newcomer, the warmth and energy of over 200 runners, led by the illustrious Olympian Karissa Schweizer, were overwhelming.
That day, I experienced firsthand the power of community in running—a sense of belonging and shared passion that I yearned to replicate back home in the Philippines. Inspired, I returned with a mission: to cultivate a similar spirit of camaraderie and enthusiasm within our local running scene. Thus, the RWP Run Club was born.
Now, in 2024, running has woven itself into the mainstream fabric of Filipino sports culture. The curiosity around running has surged, attracting a diverse crowd—from seasoned marathoners to those simply looking to dip their toes into the world of fitness. This burgeoning interest has given rise to various running clubs and communities across the nation, each with its unique flavor and focus. From urban sprints to scenic trails, these groups offer a gateway not just to running but to a wider spectrum of athletic pursuits like trail running, cycling, and swimming.
Recognizing the transformative power of community in the world of running, I’ve compiled a list of run clubs and communities that stand out in their ability to welcome, nurture, and inspire. Whether you’re aiming for an international marathon, chasing your first 5k, seeking to enhance your fitness, or simply in need of a supportive group to help you through life’s hurdles, there’s a place for you in the Philippines’ running community.
Locations - Alabang, Bacolod, Baguio, BGC, Cebu, Cavite, Makati, Pasay, Rizal, QC, Marikina, UPLB
Locations - Alabang, BGC, UP
Locations - Pasig, LU
Locations - Cubao
Locations - Rockwell
Locations - Ateneo/Katipunan
Locations - UP Diliman
Locations - Alabang, UP Diliman
Locations - Quezon City
Locations - UP Diliman
Locations - UP, QC, MOA, BGC
Locations - Ayala
Locations - Pasig
Locations - BGC
Locations - Lasalle
The journey from solitary runs to a thriving communal experience underscores the evolution of running in the Philippines. It’s a testament to the idea that while running may start as an individual pursuit, it’s within the collective joy, challenges, and triumphs that we truly find our stride. As the landscape of running in the Philippines continues to evolve, it’s my sincere hope that each individual finds their place within this diverse and welcoming community. May the paths we choose to run, whether paved or trailed, lead us not only to personal milestones but also to shared experiences and lasting friendships. Here’s to lacing up, stepping out, and embracing the collective heartbeat of the running community. Keep running, keep exploring, and most importantly, enjoy every step of the journey.
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