Participants of the RUNRIO Pride Run, June 22, 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds. Handout photo

MANILA -- Over 5,000 runners proudly showed off their colors and some even dressed up in costumes in the festive RUNRIO Pride Run 2024, held last Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds.

"We encourage everybody to get into sports so it is just right to have a race for all in our society," said RUNRIO Founder and CEO Rio de la Cruz of the event, which celebrated the LGBTQIA+ community on Pride Month.

Juan Carlo Igos topped the 10K category, finishing the course in 38 minutes and 11 seconds, while a distant second was Ceasar Mabaquiao (41:21) and at third was Joseph Fontamillas (41:51).

Cavin Vedal ruled the 5K with his time of 16 minutes and 47 seconds, followed by Christopher Iblan (16:54) and Rowin Ongcal (19:50), while Mark Angelo Biagtan was the fastest in 3K with 11 minutes and six seconds, pursued by Enrich Queyangco (12:23) and Joeross Simangan (12:41).

BingoPlus Foundation also donated P500,000 to LoveYourselfPH in raising awareness about HIV prevention as part of its advocacy in making healthcare more accessible to various communities.

"It’s a vibrant celebration and a reminder to celebrate love but also practice self-love," said BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director Angela Camins-Wieneke.