Sports

Vermosa partners with Takbo Kabitenyo for third straight year

Vermosa Green Run, the multi-level race that supports ecosystem conservation, animal welfare and sports development, has partnered anew with Takbo Kabitenyo, a Cavite-based running organization dedicated to developing aspiring track and field athletes from Cavite.

Vermosa recently turned over race kits to the organization to seal their partnership for the third straight year. Each Takbo Kabitenyo runner also received race day essentials from this year’s sponsors Merrell and Gatsby.

By supporting Takbo Kabitenyo, Vermosa aims to provide greater exposure and meaningful opportunities for promising Cavite athletes as they pursue their sporting aspirations to hopefully become national athletes. By championing young athletes, Vermosa underscofres its support for grassroots sports development.

Green Run 2026 will gun off at Ayala Vermosa Estates on June 28, providing runners of different fitness levels the opportunity to compete, hone their running skills and enjoy the camaraderie of other members of the running community. Proceeds from Green Run 2026 will benefit the Haribon Foundation, Takbo Kabitenyo, and Pawssion Project. The event is also backed by Oishi, Merrell, Pocari, Salonpas, Booster C, Fitbar, Gatsby, Milo, Apex, Topbreed, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Special, Entrée Gourmet Pet Treats, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, Zert, Wonderpaw.

For more information about The Green Run 2026 and to register, visit ayalaland.myruntime.com/register.

SM Active Hub powers the Philippines’ largest sports playground across 90 malls nationwide

Across the Philippines, an expanding community of runners, pickleball players, skaters, bowlers, cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and emerging athletes are adopting more active lifestyles within SM Supermalls. Through SM Active Hub, millions of Filipinos have gained access to spaces where they can stay active, compete, learn new sports, and engage with like-minded individuals, transforming SM malls into the country’s largest network of active lifestyle destinations.

From April to June, SM organized over 3,500 sports and sports-related events across the country, further solidifying its role in driving sports participation and community involvement. Through grassroots initiatives, beginner training sessions, tournaments, and large-scale activations, SM continues to promote greater access to sports while encouraging more Filipinos to lead active and engaged lifestyles.

Where Winning Begins

The success of SM Supermalls’ sports ecosystem is built on a simple belief: every athlete deserves a place to start. Through sports programs, tournaments, fitness activities, and community events across its malls nationwide, millions of Filipinos have discovered new passions, developed their skills, and embraced more active lifestyles, helping build one of the country’s largest sports communities.

At the heart of this movement is SM Sports & Leisure Centers, which introduces aspiring athletes and enthusiasts to a wide range of sports through its seasonal training programs. Under the banner “Where Winning Begins,” participants gain access to expert coaching, quality facilities, and opportunities to build confidence and sharpen their skills.

From the ice rink to the bowling lane and archery range, these programs inspire beginners to take their first steps in sport while nurturing the discipline, focus, and determination needed to grow.

“Every champion starts somewhere, and for many young Filipinos, that journey begins with access, opportunity, and the confidence to try,” said Joseph Francis V. Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations of SM Sports & Leisure Centers.

He added, “Sports teach more than technique. They build discipline, resilience, teamwork, and character. Our goal is to make these experiences accessible to more Filipinos and help nurture the next generation of athletes.”

A Nationwide Active Lifestyle Movement

The success of these programs reflects SM Supermalls’ vision of making sports more accessible to Filipinos. By transforming its mall spaces into venues for sports, wellness, and recreation, SM continues to inspire more people to stay active and engaged.

From skating rinks and bowling centers to pickleball courts, running hubs, basketball events, and multi-sport activations, SM has become a major force in bringing sports closer to communities nationwide.

“Sports have the unique ability to bring people together, inspire healthier lifestyles, and build stronger communities,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls. “Through SM Active Hub, we’re transforming our malls into spaces where people don’t just shop or dine—they move, compete, learn, and connect.”

He added, “What began as individual sports initiatives has grown into the Philippines’ largest sports communities. Every run, every game, every training session, and every event creates opportunities for Filipinos to pursue their passions and become part of something bigger.”

Today, SM Supermalls is more than a destination for leisure and entertainment. It has now become the country’s premier sports destination, where communities gather, and athletes are born.

To stay updated on upcoming sports events, programs, and activities, visit SM Active Hub via the SM Malls Online app or through SM Supermalls’ official channels. From active lifestyle experiences to Gala to the Max and other Maxed Out Fun activities, there is always something exciting happening at SM Supermalls.

Vermosa Green Run, the pioneering advocacy event that rallied the community back to the tracks post-pandemic, is returning for its landmark fifth consecutive staging on June 28, 2026 at Vermosa in Imus, Cavite.

This time, the run that has attracted fitness enthusiasts, casual runners, elite athletes, pet lovers, and families out for fun and fitness is taking concrete steps to deepen the appreciation and commitment of the running community to sustainable green living and an active lifestyle.

The fifth edition of the Green Run, where immersion in nature and lush, green sceneries is one of the main attractions, is introducing more eco-conscious elements into the race experience and encouraging participants to get involved in long-term forest restoration efforts across the country. For one, running across the scenic Green Run route inspires runners to become advocates for conservation and sustainable lifestyles.

This year, the multi-level run – which features 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K running categories and a 1K Dog Run – is challenging fitness enthusiasts, elite athletes, families, and pet lovers to actively participate in localized waste reduction by bringing used PET (polyethylene terephthalate) water bottles or food containers when they register to avail of race kit discounts.  The collected bottles will be turned over to the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) to be upcycled into eco bricks that will help reduce environmental impact and support sustainable construction and community practices.

The race shirts and singlets including the dog bandanas are also made from recycled PET bottles. “We want runners to feel – both literally and symbolically – that choosing to participate means choosing to support responsible resource use. Embedding sustainability directly into the race kits was a deliberate choice that reflects Vermosa’s values. It transforms a souvenir into a lasting reminder of conscious living,” said Kristin Raval-Ofilada, Ayala Land Project Development Manager.

Ms. Raval-Ofilada also announced that beyond the recycled race kits, this year’s Green Run encourages racing enthusiasts to participate as a group. “Every group of 10 participants automatically becomes part of Haribon Foundation’s Forests for Life Movement. As such, they will support native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities nationwide. Through this movement, Haribon brings together individuals, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests using a science-based rain forestation approach focused on planting and nurturing native tree species.”

The Forests for Life Movement seeks to create long-term ecological impact by ensuring that seedlings survive, grow, and mature into healthy forests. Restored forests help secure clean water, fertile soil, and stable climates that are the lifelines sustaining communities across the country, Ofilada explained.

Beyond environmental conservation, the Green Run remains rooted in holistic health, animal welfare, and sports excellence. Co-beneficiaries of Haribon Foundation Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project highlight the interconnectedness of planetary and community health, emphasizing that preserving natural habitats goes hand-in-hand with animal welfare and human well-bring.

The Green Run will take place amidst Vermosa’s expansive, nature-forward open spaces, utilizing the world-class facilities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the region’s   ultimate venue for athletic training and active lifestyles. True to its blueprint, the 2026 race will feature responsible hydration systems and stringent waste-reduction measures designed to inspire eco-friendly habits long after crossing the finish line.

Green Run 2026 is supported by Pocari Sweat, Merrell, Fitbat, Salonpas, Topbreed, Smart C, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Especial, Entrée, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, and Zert.

For more information about Vermosa Green Run 2026, go to https://ayalaland.myruntime.com/register  to register.

Skechers’ powerhouse trio, Kiki Iriafen, Rickea Jackson, and Jackie Young will kick off the partnership on court for the WNBA’s 30th season proudly representing the brand.

WNBA and Skechers have officially entered a multiyear partnership that names the global footwear brand as an Official Partner of the league. As part of its continued commitment to supporting women’s sports worldwide and will be a fixture throughout the league as the WNBA celebrates its milestone 30^th season.

“We’re excited to welcome Skechers to the WNBA family at a moment of extraordinary momentum for our league,” said WNBA Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison. “This partnership reflects the growing demand from global brands to connect with WNBA fans worldwide. We look forward to collaborating with Skechers to create unique fan experiences, deepen engagement, and elevate the players who power our league.”  

“Partnering with the WNBA illustrates our long-term commitment to promoting women’s basketball and elevating the athletes who are enthusiastic about the game at every level,” said David Weinberg, Chief Operating Officer at Skechers. “Skechers has been part of the basketball community for several seasons, and now fans will see our innovative footwear take center stage in the WNBA for the first time. We look forward to leveraging the league’s exploding popularity to help grow the sport while introducing our signature Comfort That Performs to even more athletes around the world.”

In 2024, forward Rickea Jackson, who was recently traded to the Chicago Sky, became the first athlete to play in Skechers Basketball footwear in the WNBA. Skechers expanded its roster in 2025, welcoming Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen and shooting guard Jackie Young—who won her third WNBA championship with the Las Vegas Aces last season.

“For me, it’s all about staying comfortable and locked in, and Skechers gave me that all the way through our championship run last season,” said Jackie Young. “This season is going to be special, and it feels like the perfect time for Skechers to make it official. I can’t wait to see more players in the S on the court soon.”

“The Skechers team constantly checks in with me for feedback and ideas, so they’ve been a great partner for me as a player and I know they’ll be a fantastic partner for the league,” said Rickea Jackson. “And of course I love the shoes—they look and feel great on the court. It is only a matter of time until more players will start to catch on.”

“When Skechers signed me ahead of the draft last year, I knew this was a brand that believed not only in me, but in our sport overall,” added Kiki Iriafen. “From design to promotion, they truly prioritize the needs of female athletes and now that they’re partnered with the W, the possibilities are limitless.”

Skechers will play a visible role throughout the WNBA’s landmark 30th season celebration. Skechers continues to transform basketball footwear through its innovative lineup designed for players of every skill level. The collection features models such as the quick and responsive SKX NEXUS, the versatile SKX Full-Court Press™, the lightweight SKX Resagrip® with enhanced cushioning technology, and the SKX Reign™ built for superior lift and strong traction, among others. Guided by its Comfort That Performs® philosophy, Skechers helps athletes stay focused and perform at their best every time they hit the court.

Selected pieces from the Skechers Basketball collection are available in Skechers retail outlets and specialty athletic stores worldwide. Fans can also stay updated on product launches and exclusive behind-the-scenes content by following @skechersbasketball on Instagram and TikTok.

Designed to keep up with every Pinoy’s fast-paced and “tara, takbo” lifestyle,  the new Skechers AERO Razor™delivers that high-performance feel serious runners look for on every run.

Whether you’re logging long miles before sunrise, squeezing in tempo runs after work, or tackling intense interval sessions on the road, every stride calls for dependable performance. For serious runners who value speed, responsiveness, and lightweight comfort built for rigorous training, a new contender has entered the scene: the all-new Skechers AERO Razor™.

Designed with an ultra-light feel, the shoe draws inspiration from the iconic and award-winning Skechers Razor 3, a favorite among runners since 2018. Building on what athletes loved about the original, the new AERO Razor™ elevates the experience with upgrades tailored for today’s performance-driven lifestyle.

Lightweight but Powerful

One of the standout features of the Skechers AERO Razor™ is how light it feels on foot. If you’re wondering how light it really is, well, we’re talking only 196g for men’s size 9 and 159g for women’s size 7. Basically, it’s the kind of shoe that feels incredibly light from the very first step, helping athletic runners move fast and stay agile without feeling weighed down.

Additionally, this shoe packs serious performance tech engineered for runners who want comfort without sacrificing speed. At its core is Skechers’ Hyper Burst Pro™ Super Critical Foam™ cushioning, which gives runners a responsive, energetic ride. Concurrently, the patented H-wing forefoot design also helps create a snappier toe-off, keeping an effortless push-off when you pick up the pace.

Built for Real-Life Pinoy Movement

For many Pinoy runners, especially serious ones logging in their consistent 10k steps and squeezing in a run before work or after a long day, it’s not just about pace—it’s about adapting to the chaos of everyday roads.  And let’s be honest, with Manila’s streets rarely giving runners a “perfect track” moment, every jog often turns into a mix of cracked sidewalks, uneven pavement, sudden potholes, and the occasional detour around busy intersections or parked tricycles.

That’s where the Skechers AERO Razor™ comes in.

With its Arch Fit® technology and podiatrist-certified arch support, it’s designed for people who are constantly on the move. So whether you’re powering through an early morning run in BGC-like concrete stretches or navigating the rougher, more unpredictable sidewalks in residential barangays, it helps support your feet. This makes those longer runs feel more manageable and less punishing on the arches.

At the same time, the Hyper Arc™ technology encourages a smoother, more efficient stride. Instead of feeling like you’re fighting the terrain, it helps you glide forward with a more natural, effortless motion.

Even the base layer was built with real-world conditions in mind, as the Goodyear® Rubber outsole enhances traction and stability. Amazingly, this feature makes you focus less on where you step and more on the run itself.

Ready to Test Your Next Running Fave?

The complete Skechers AERO lineup, featuring the new AERO Razor™, will be available beginning May 24, 2026 at Skechers Philippines and selected specialty athletic retailers. Check out the all-new AERO Razor™ at participating Skechers stores near you and take your running experience to the next level.

Major race events at SM malls in Cebu and SM Mall of Asia bring runners together through SM Active Hub lifestyle and sports programs

SM2SM run now on its 14th year where runners race from SM Seaside and SM City Cebu

Over 32,000 runners attended two significant racing events in Cebu and SM Mall of Asia this weekend, solidifying SM Supermalls’ standing as one of the nation’s top running destinations.

SM spaces evolved into lively race settings where runners congregated to compete, celebrate accomplishments, and interact with other enthusiasts, from massive road races to women-led running clubs.

As running continues to surge across the Philippines, many runners now look for venues that offer safe routes, accessible locations, and strong community support. Across its nationwide network, SM Supermalls has become a natural hub for runners, hosting major race events while providing everyday spaces where communities can train and grow. Today, this ecosystem spans 24 malls with dedicated running paths, supports 45 active running clubs, and has mounted 55 running events to date, reinforcing SM Supermalls’ position as a leading platform for the country’s growing running community.

SM2SM Run energizes Cebu’s running community

In Cebu, the SM2SM Run 2026 gathered 15,500 runners for its 14th year, marking historic highs for the event and reinforcing its place as one of the region’s biggest running events. Women made up 40% of participants, a record share that reflects the growing participation of women in the country’s running community.

The race connected two iconic landmarks, starting at SM Seaside City Cebu and finishing at SM City Cebu, turning the city into a high energy celebration of fitness and community.

The excitement extended beyond the finish line when one lucky participant won the grand raffle prize, a BYD Shark 6. The prize also reflects the growing shift toward electric mobility in the Philippines. Across more than 90 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls has built one of the country’s largest electric vehicle charging networks, allowing guests to conveniently charge their vehicles for free during mall hours while they dine, shop, or spend time with family. Through this integrated network, SM actively promotes the shift to cleaner mobility by making EV adoption more practical, accessible, and part of everyday consumer behavior.

The grand raffle winner, Desiree Villadolid, enjoyed a moment that perfectly matched the scale and excitement of the maxed-out SM2SM Run, adding another memorable highlight to race day.

Women’s Run celebrates strength and community

Meanwhile at SM Mall of Asia, 16,500 runners joined the 2026 Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) Women’s Run PH in celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s Month. Of the total participants, 90% were women runners, highlighting the strong and growing movement of women embracing running as a lifestyle.

Now on its third year with FCC as title sponsor and SM Supermalls as co presenter, the run continues to grow as a national platform that promotes women’s health, empowerment, and community through running.

Thousands of women ran along the scenic seaside roads of SM Mall of Asia under the theme Strength, Grace, and Honor, creating an inspiring atmosphere of encouragement and shared achievement.

SM Active Hub anchors running communities

SM Active Hub, the sports and wellness platform of SM Supermalls that fosters active communities throughout its malls, supports these expanding events.

SM Supermalls continues to provide areas where runners may travel, interact, and fully enjoy life, from regular training routes to significant race weekends.

SM Supermalls is your favorite shopping center. Where community, lifestyle, and fully realized experiences come together. Everything is for you.