The marathon craze is at an all-time high. Especially in Metro Manila, there are now many fun runs, events, and races that runners can choose from (in fact, it feels almost as though there’s a new one every weekend). This is a great sign of how the running community is growing and spreading a passion for fitness and health.

But of all the running events happening this year, there is one in particular that has already touched the hearts of many Filipinos. It is the first-ever Manny Pacquiao Half-Marathon.

Named after the legendary boxer, the Manny Pacquiao Half-Marathon will be taking over Manila’s streets on September 29. Led by the Pacman himself, this half-marathon will take place at the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City, but its mileage will go far beyond this, as this event is more than just another fun run.

This half-marathon is an advocacy focused on promoting fitness, health, and nation building. With these serving as pillars of the event, the proceeds will be donated to Emmanuel & Jinkee’s Heart Foundation, an organization that aims to uplift the lives of Filipinos living in poverty.

And the best part? The sign-ups for the Manny Pacquiao Half-Marathon was sold out — a success that will touch the lives of many Filipinos.

Organized by PepSquad Events and Pinoy Fitness, there are four race categories at the Manny Pacquiao Half-Marathon that the registrants signed up for: 3k, 5k, 10k, and of course, the main event, the half-marathon distance of 21k. With every sign up, runners also get their own race bib and event shirt, along with a timing chip. And to make things sweeter for the participants who will be waking up bright and early to take on a longer distance, those participating in the 10k and 21k category get their own medal for finishing the run!

However, apart from finisher’s medals, the main prize that each runner will go home with is the knowledge that not only did they finish the race, but they also got the chance to be a part of a meaningful cause, led by the legend Manny Pacquiao.

Pacquiao started his career as a stowaway heading for Manila pursuing his dream to become a boxer. His goal was to help his family out of poverty, but even then, he had to support his dream by working in construction sites and bakeries on top of his own training.

Now, he is the only boxer to win 12 major world titles in eight different weight divisions. He’s a legend among Filipinos and boxing fans around the world, yet Manny still remembers his humble beginnings. He knows what it’s like to live with nothing and has since devoted his efforts into public service.

The Manny Pacquiao Half-Marathon is one such effort to give back to both community and country. So set your sights on September 29, where Filipino runners will be racing for a cause.