Southeast Asian Games gold medalist and obstacle course racer Marites Nocyao topped the 5-kilometer event in the well-attended Women’s Run PH on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.
Nocyao, a part of the Philippine squad that clinched the gold in the women’s team relay in the Phnom Penh SEA Games in 2022, said running in the event was worth it as she ran alongside other participants in celebration of Women’s Month in which participants ran in the 1 km, 5 km and 10 km events.
“You got to be celebrated, you get to be recognized as a woman — strong and running together is really good,” Nocyao said.
“While running, they are all pushing each other, smiling, you know since it’s ‘Sunday Fun-day’ which is a really good way to start the day and celebrate women’s month.”
The 32-year-old even said these events will help her stay fit.
“Personally, it’s for training because I’m still in the national team. I’m a national athlete and also support women and support everyone.”
Nocyao was one of the 5,000 participants in this event where Watsons Philippines and SM are the major sponsors.
Watsons senior assistant vice president for marketing, PR and sustainability Sharon Decapia said she is happy to be part of the event that doesn’t only encourages people to be accepting and respectful to women.
“This is special because this represents an advocacy for women. So we’re it’s more meaningful that it’s not just an event, it’s an event that encourages everyone to promote inclusivity and gender equality,” Decapia said.
