Not even rain and flashes of lightning could stop nearly 2,500 runners and 350 dogs from taking part in the fourth edition of the Vermosa Green Run, held on Sunday, June 29, at the scenic Vermosa Estates in Imus, Cavite.
Launched in 2022, the multi-level, eco-themed run has grown into a well-loved annual tradition at the 750-hectare Ayala Land estate south of Metro Manila. This year’s event once again drew a diverse crowd of elite athletes, casual joggers, fitness enthusiasts, and families to its various race categories: 21K half-marathon, 10K, 5K, and 3K. A perennial crowd favorite, the 1K Dog Run provided fur parents a joyful and active bonding experience with their pets, all set against the estate’s well-paved roads and lush green backdrop.
The inaugural Vermosa Green Run in 2022 encouraged the public to “go out, lace up, mask up, and run for a greener tomorrow,” rekindling people’s love for the outdoors after years of pandemic restrictions. Since then, the event has championed wellness, sustainability, and community building — a mission that remains at its core today.
Organized by Pinoy Fitness Inc., the Green Run continues to support meaningful causes. Proceeds from this year’s edition benefited the Haribon Foundation’s Adopt-A-Seedling Program, Pawssion Project (an animal welfare organization), and Takbo Kabitenyo, a local group that trains young athletes for national and international races. As part of the event’s green initiative, participants were also encouraged to bring used plastic materials, which will be repurposed into eco-friendly building materials such as benches and pathways.
Described by running regulars as “the most scenic run” in the South, the event also serves as a lifestyle statement for many. For Cavite local Angel Montevirgen, a member of Takbo Kabitenyo, the Green Run has become more than just a race.
“It’s a lifestyle that becomes a part of you. You look forward to it each year — for the fitness, the gear, the friendships, and the joy of running. It’s also about the sense of community,” he shared.
Despite gloomy skies, Pinoy Fitness president Jeff Lo was pleasantly surprised by the massive turnout.
“Runners actually enjoy running in the rain — it’s cooler and more fun,” he said. “What makes Vermosa ideal is its safe and smooth roads, even when wet. It’s green, clean, and scenic — a refreshing change from urban runs. Here, runners can really enjoy the experience.”
Lo praised the estate’s openness to runners year-round. “You don’t need a race to run here. People come any time — day or night — to train or simply enjoy the outdoors. The Green Run is like a celebration of all that running.”
Chrissy Roa, Head of Marketing and Communications for Ayala Land Estates, echoed the purpose behind the event:
“Every step you take in the Vermosa Green Run supports a bigger cause. It’s fitness, wellness, sustainability, and community support all rolled into one meaningful event.”
Now a hallmark among purpose-driven lifestyle events, the Vermosa Green Run reflects Ayala Land’s long-term sustainability vision — harnessing the power of fitness and community to make a positive impact on the environment and society.
