Village Connect
Two of the Philippines’ finest long-distance runners, Richard Salaño and Christine Hallasgo, proudly carried the nation’s colors at the TCS Sydney Marathon on August 31, 2025. As reigning King and Queen of the 2024 National MILO® Marathon, both athletes turned their victory at home into a powerful statement abroad, showcasing not just speed but the grit and discipline that define Filipino champions.
Their participation came at a historic moment, with Sydney officially joining the Abbott World Marathon Majors and drawing more than 35,000 athletes from around the globe. Against this world-class field, Salaño clocked an impressive 2:26:48, the fastest male Southeast Asian finisher, while Hallasgo crossed in 2:54:24, proving her consistency and strength on one of the toughest marathon routes she had ever faced.
For Richard, the journey was one of redemption. After a setback that cost him a spot on the national team, his 2024 MILO® Marathon win reignited his career and opened the door to Sydney. Balancing work and training, he pushed himself through 160 kilometers of weekly mileage—a testament to perseverance.
Christine’s path was no less inspiring. From an unprepared first full marathon in 2014 to fourteen MILO® finishes later, she finally captured the Queen’s crown in 2024. Despite health challenges during the finals in Cagayan de Oro, she fought to defend her title, sharpening her mental and physical endurance for the Sydney stage.
Both runners faced not only international rivals but also the adjustment from the Philippines’ heat to Sydney’s cooler weather. Through discipline in recovery, nutrition, and focus, they overcame these hurdles, embodying the same values MILO® has championed for decades: resilience, determination, and passion for sports.
Cheered on by fellow Filipinos along the route, they drew strength from the crowd and the pride of representing the country. “Wala namang imposible dahil lahat nakukuha sa training,” Richard reminded aspiring athletes. Christine, meanwhile, urged young runners to keep believing: “Sa mga kabataan, ’wag kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Balang araw, makukuha niyo rin ’yang pinapangarap niyo.”
For MILO®, which has been fueling champions for more than 60 years, the pair’s Sydney performance is proof of what happens when grassroots dreams meet global stages. As the brand continues to inspire a nation of athletes, Salaño and Hallasgo’s story now stands as a shining example: two runners who turned challenges into triumphs, and every stride into a symbol of Filipino pride.
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