Sports know no boundaries — no age, race, nationality, religion, or location. Sports are for all, and the recent MILO Marathon held in Iloilo City on September 24, 2023 proved to be true.
With over 20,000 runners in attendance at the third leg of the longest-running and most prestigious run, MILO once again brought together countless stories of grit, perseverance, and inspiration from the runners; showing how everyone is a Champion in their own right.
Visually impaired runners from the Integrated School for Exceptional Children (ISEC) Iloilo were some of the standout stories from the run.
10-year-old Zayn Varon and 14-year-old Yeisha Jayme were first-time MILO® Marathon runners who joined the run to maintain an active lifestyle and spend quality time with friends. When asked what his message was for fellow kids who might be struggling, Zayn simply responded, “laban lang!”
Also among the group of ISEC Iloilo runners was father-daughter tandem Fhellix Somes and Fhel Ashera Somes. When asked why they joined the run, Fhellix shared that Fhel aspires to one day compete in the Paralympics, and staying physically active and drinking MILO® everyday are the ways in which Fhellix helps his daughter become a Champion in her journey to success.
MILO has maintained its commitment to be inclusive as it extends across the spectrum of sports programs such as the MILO® Marathon, Sports Clinic, and Barangay Liga.
These initiatives reflect a deeply rooted mission that recognizes the transformative power of sports for all children, regardless of their physical abilities.
Carlo Sampan, Head of MILO Sports, shared that he believes sports is more than just winning medals and trophies, it’s about camaraderie. He further elaborated by stating,
“At MILO®, we’re dedicated to ensuring that every child, regardless of their physical abilities, can find inspiration and empowerment through sports. From the MILO® Marathon to our Sports Clinics and the MILO® Barangay Liga, our programs aim to nurture both athletic skills and essential life values, fostering a future where every child can participate and thrive.”
The final leg will be held Cagayan De Oro on October 29.
