Written by: Gabrielle Anne T. Tecson
“Ready ka na ba?
This is the question that seems to echo everywhere I go lately. Like a sudden announcement or a high-stakes test, it serves as a prompt to move—a marker forcing you to ask: when exactly are you supposed to act? But for me, that question carries a different weight. It represents the crisp unfolding of a brand-new chapter.
This was my definitive “ready ka na ba” moment. As someone who is consistently “g na g” to grab every single opportunity that comes my way, learning that I would be joining the team as an intern was a thrill. My first major assignment? Covering the Kapamilya Run 2026, organized by MNL City Run for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation (AFI), on June 14, 2026..
Initially, panic set in. I am not a marathoner, and I genuinely thought I’d be the one hitting the pavement. But as the nerves settled, the deeper reality of the event became clear. The Kapamilya Run isn’t just an initiative to improve physical well-being; it is a movement running for a profound cause. Every stride taken directly supports the programs of AFI, from Bantay Bata 163, Bantay Kalikasan, Programa Genio, Galing Pamayanan, and lastly Sagip Kapamilya, specifically extended as a lifeline to our fellow Kapamilyas who are recovering from the devastating earthquakes in GenSan, Davao, and other parts of Mindanao.
When it was clarified that I wouldn’t be running but would instead be writing about it, a wave of relief washed over me, quickly followed by a deep sense of nostalgia. This was my very first official task—a core, memorable milestone that I will proudly carry throughout my journey as an intern.
A Sea of Colors in Filinvest City
By 3:30 AM on Sunday, as we stepped out of the vehicle at the Filinvest City Event Grounds—a light drizzle began to fall. But a minor dampness wasn’t nearly enough to halt the momentum. Walking across the wet grass, the stage speakers blasted an energetic track, instantly waking up and recharging every Kapamilya runner, supporter, and four-legged companion in attendance.
Partner booths lined the venue, including Spica Regulus, PhilLife UK, Booster C, WonderPaw, Chery Auto, ZENITH, But First, Coffee, MC Asia Leisure Corporation, Better Blend, Coco Buco, Anytime Fitness, Hop Inn Hotels, Goodest Pet, IKEA Philippines, and Clover Chips. Standing by the ABS-CBN Foundation booth, Alongside AFI was joined by its official media partners, DZMM RADYO PATROL 630 And DZMM TeleRadyo, which helped amplify the event’s message of community and hope to audiences nationwide. I watched Alabang come alive with smiling faces.
The overwhelming support from the MNL City Run sponsors reflected the true spirit of the event, that helping Kapamilyas is a shared commitment. From Filinvest City, Ion+ Advanced Electrolyte Drink, Nature’s Spring, Bellevue Hotel, Azumi Boutique Hotel, Festival Mall, USHMC, Asian Hospital and Medical Center, Pet Partner Philippines, Birch Tree Adult Boost, Smart, Pet Socials, Dermplus, Astrotel, Hotel Sogo, Salonpas, Fitbar, Park Access, Rev Protect, Bambini, Elassion, Dermo Republiq, Tuhog Modern Barbeque, Manalo K9, SDN, Vitamin Boost, Mogu Mogu, Wellspring, Nutrifizz, B’LUE, Chef On A Diet, Novuhair, Spica Regulus Marketing, Pru Life UK, Booster C Energy Shots, WonderPaw, CHERY Auto GMA/Frontier Automotive Marilao Corp., Zenith PH, Better Blend, McAsia Food Corp., CocoBuco, Clover, and BusinessMirror.
The AFI and MNL City Run partnerships not only boosted wellness, partnering with brands that catered to life and well-being, but also helped motivate and support one another for a cause that is meaningful. Through everyone’s lens on that grass field, you could see smiles as they lined up. A run supported by fellow brands, all showing one goal for Kapamilyas. A symbol of a hand of support.
ABS-CBN’s signature colors filled the venue as 7,500 runners came together for the event. From 10KM participants clad in bright red to groups sporting green jerseys for the 5KM and 3KM categories, the excitement was unmistakable. Many runners brought their own creative flair through unique props and fun group gimmicks. Standing in the center of the crowd, I felt completely immersed—it was truly an “ahw!” moment.
Faith, Family, and Inching Closer to the Stage
Moving past the barricades toward the stage, I readied my phone to snap photos and clutched my microphone, preparing for interviews. I captured frames of participants stretching, adjusting their wristbands, and settling into the zone.
As the countdown clock began ticking down for the 10KM wave, I navigated my way toward the edge of the podium to speak with the participants.
“Running here is joyful, especially knowing we are running with a purpose and a goal. Doing this with my family is more than I could ever ask for,” shared Elrish, 11, who attended the event with her mother. Their close bond reflected a strong mother-daughter connection that resonated with many.
A few paces away, I crossed paths with a couple waiting for their turn at the 5KM line, Rodney Cristoso and his girlfriend.
“Sobrang happy namin bilang mag-couple. Hindi lang pala ito para sa well-being mo, kundi alam mo na may mapupuntahan at may patutunguhan yung bawat hakbang mo,” Rodney stated. (“We’re truly happy as a couple. We realized that joining this run is not just about our well-being ; it’s also about knowing that every step you take has a purpose and contributes to something meaningful.”)
Watching the couple’s excitement and support for each other showed the Kapamilya spirit. Age doesn’t limit who can run or enjoy life. Their energy and smiles were infectious, echoing how I felt as l interviewed them.
Starstruck on the Sidelines
As a Gen Z who isn’t afraid to chase the hype, I was assigned to a station near the side of the stage to interview the star-studded lineup of ABS-CBN Kapamilya artists who turned up to support the advocacy. I was grateful for the role because I could share this on my social media account and take photos with them—a small memory from an inspiring encounter.
The event also drew an impressive roster of 35 Kapamilya personalities and guests who took part across various race categories. From the demanding 10-kilometer challenge, participants included Iñigo Jose, Joaquin Arce, Jameson Blake, Miggy Jimenez, Kaori Oinuma, Jan Silva, Jas Dudley-Scales, Rocky Labayen, Aya Fernandez, Nicole San Juan, Elyson de Dios, and Roger Dudley-Scales.
Meanwhile, the 5-kilometer category brought together Aria Bartolini, Fred Moser, Lella Ford, River Joseph, Karl Bautista, Ashton Salvador, and Binsoy Namoca. The 3-kilometer run was joined by Sophie Reyes, Bong Gonzales, Joaquin Canlas, Carvey Samonte, and Alondra Cleofas. Completing the shorter distance, the 1-kilometer category featured Kira Balinger, Sofronio Vasquez, Carmelle Calado, Lyka Estrella, Marielle Montellano, JM Dela Cerna, Christian Tibayan, Avery Love, and Amy Nobleza.
Admiring them from afar is one thing, but standing face-to-face with them was completely starstriking. I couldn’t wait to get their thoughts on the energy of the run.
“I’ve participated in a lot of runs before, but this one is different because I’m running alongside my fellow Kapamilya artists. It really feels like we are running as one big family, having fun, and most importantly, running for a cause,” Jameson Blake shared when asked about the unique atmosphere.
The sentiment was echoed by singer Carmelle Collado, who could barely contain her excitement before the start:
“Nag-enjoy po ako kahit magsisimula pa lang! Sobrang happy, and aside from that, makakasama ko pa yung mga fellow artists ko for a great cause,” she shared. (“I’m already enjoying it even though it’s only just about to start. I’m really happy, and aside from that, I get to be with my fellow artists while supporting a great cause.”)
The members of the P-pop group WRIVE expressed how fulfilling it was to be active participants:
“G na g kami at happy! Sanay kami sa pawisan dahil sa dance training, pero iba ’tong pawis na ’to kasi magkakasama kaming napapagod para makatulong sa kapwa,” they shared. (“We’re so ready and happy! We’re used to sweating because of dance training, but this kind of sweat feels different because we’re getting tired together for the sake of helping others.”)
Actress Kira Balinger also noted the massive turnout:
“Sobrang saya seeing all the runners who joined. Despite everything, the ABS-CBN Foundation continues to find ways to help. I don’t really run, but this is a definitive start for me. I hope I can join many more fun runs in the future.”
Seeing them hugging their fellow Kapamilya artists after the run, taking photos with their medals, and interacting with their fans truly shows how deeply people can connect. The genuine smiles, along with the exhaustion and sweat, make the moment feel even more fulfilling and meaningful.
Paws on the Pavement
Following the celebrity interviews, a chorus of high-pitched barks and yips caught my attention. I was especially drawn to their beautiful outfits and props while they ran. The 1KM dog walk was about to commence, and the sight was incredibly endearing. The puppies and dogs wore adorable custom outfits and accessories, many matching the colors of their owners.
I stopped to chat with Joann, who was holding her hyperactive two-year-old fur baby.
“Apat ang aso ko at si Panda ang bunso. Bilang furmom, sobrang excited ko para sa kanya ngayon. Hyper siya ngayon pero panigurado karga-karga ko na ’to mamaya!” she laughed. (“I have four dogs and Panda is the youngest. As a furmom, I’m really excited for him today. He’s hyper right now, but I’ll definitely be carrying him later!”)
Nearby, Heide and Warren Adanza brought out their energetic Jack Russell, Patch (1 1⁄2 years old) and Stitch (11 months old).
“We actually use them to jog every weekend for about 6KM, so easy-easy lang sa kanila ’to ngayon! Yipee!” Heide shared enthusiastically.
Seeing them, I could notice the fur parents being even more excited than their dogs—so proud to be running alongside them. As a proud fur parent, I could see how eager they were to bond with their fur babies. For me, this is a moment worth every mile and more, something I would gladly take part in.
The Wisdom of a Legend
Just as I was wrapping up my rounds, I found myself standing in front of a woman I have looked up to for years—broadcast icon Ms. Bernadette Sembrano.
With her trademark warmth, she offered a beautiful spin on an old adage that perfectly captured the essence of the day:
“May kasabihan tayo na ‘a family that prays together, stays together.’ Dagdagan natin ngayon: ‘a family that plays together, stays together.’ Maraming salamat sa araw na ito na magkakasama ang mga pamilyang tumatakbo. Sabi nga nila, pag magkasama sa hirap at ginhawa… magkapamilya,” she said. (“There is a saying that ‘a family that prays together, stays together.’ Today, let’s add: ‘a family that plays together, stays together.’ Thank you for this day where families ran together. As they say, through hardship and ease… that is what family is.”)
Next is Ms. Roberta Lopez Feliciano. Reflecting on the sheer scale of the event, she described the experience as fantastic, noting how the collective energy of the people, the brisk weather, and even the dogs created a beautiful atmosphere. She left a powerful message dedicated to everyone who supported the cause:
“Kakatingin ko pa lang sa venue for the 10KM and 5KM, nakikita mo talaga yung commitment ng mga tao to exercise while doing good. Knowing that people are here to run for those affected by recent disasters… nakakataba talaga ng puso,” she said. (“Just by looking at the 10KM and 5KM venues, you can really see people’s commitment to exercising while doing good. Knowing that people are here to run for those affected by recent disasters… it truly warms the heart.”)
Interviewing them, I felt a mix of fear and nervousness because they are influential figures. However, I could see in their eyes that this aura reflects people who are genuinely willing to help fellow Filipinos. Their presence is something to admire—their voices are always among the first to extend a helping hand to their fellow Kapamilya.
After the Countdown: My Own “Bagong Bukas”
As the final runners crossed the finish line, the core question came back to me with absolute clarity: “Matapos ang countdown, kailan ka kikilos? Ano ang nagbago sa iyo?” she said. (“After the countdown, when will you act? What has changed in you?”)
Every interview I conducted felt like an announcement of a fresh start. For every single person I interacted with, crossing that finish line marked the beginning of a new tomorrow. And as I stood there holding my microphone, packed with stories of resilience and hope, I realized that the exact same thing had happened to me.
You don’t have to look far or wait for a grand stadium spectacle to find your purpose or a fresh start. It is found directly in the people around us—especially in those who need our help the most.
This experience was more than just a passing internship task; it was my definitive answer to the call. The countdown has ended, and I am stepping forward. This is another resounding and confident “Ready ka na ba?” for me, for the ABS-CBN Foundation, and for the entire Kapamilya community. Let’s go.