MAMBAJAO, Camiguin (PIA) — More than 900 runners from across the country joined the Camiguin 360 Ultra Marathon 2025, covering the island’s coastal roads and mountain routes.
“This carefully mapped course offers a challenging yet breathtaking journey around the Island Born of Fire—featuring coastal roads, scenic landscapes, and elevations that will test every runner’s strength and determination,” said Mambajao Mayor Yñigo Jesus Romualdo.
The race began at 9:00 p.m. on April 12 at the Mambajao Municipal Grounds. Relay participants had a 10-hour cut-off (until 7:00 a.m., April 13), while solo runners had 12 hours (until 9:00 a.m.) to complete the route.
To support participants, LGU Mambajao set up 10 stations offering medical aid, water, and food at key points: Tupsan, Benoni, Guinsiliban Municipal Hall, Sagay Municipal Hall, Catarman Bureau of Fire Protection, Panghiawan, Old Church, Tongatok, Agoho Serenity Garden, and the Airport.
LGU Mambajao Sports Coordinator Gilbert Grado noted increased participation and stronger partnerships this year. “We increased the total number of participants joining the run and strengthened collaboration with partner agencies and tourism stakeholders,” he said.
On course challenges, he added that the runners struggle most with the uphill and downhill routes of the Camiguin 360.
Grado also shared plans to double participation in 2026 and further improve the program.
Ahead of the main race, the LGU hosted a Community Night Run on April 1, starting at Freedom Park. Runners joined pace groups classified as elite, average, and “sexy pacers,” in preparation for the Ultra Marathon and the upcoming Camiguin Island Trail Run.
Participant Jen Gitgano of Cagayan de Oro shared her experience running with an injury. “I ran the 64km with an existing injury, plantar fasciitis, and am still in the process of recovery. Ang matuyok nimo ug dagan ang Camiguin will always be one for the books (Being able to run around the whole of Camiguin will always be one for the books).”
First-time marathoner Kevin Mark Babia from Mambajao echoed the strong community support.“Every water station, maayo kaayo ang mga tao—naa pa gyud free massage. Salamat kaayo sa mga tagbalay nga ni-offer og free water para sa tanan runners,” Gitgano said.
(Every water station had really kind people—and there were even free massages. Big thanks to the homeowners who offered free water to all the runners.)
Bryan Quiamco led the male 64K finishers at four hours and 36 minutes, followed by Francisco Padayogdog and Richgie Dala. In the female category, Michell Ann Azarcon led with six hours and 18 minutes, followed by Noime Fernandez and Kathleen Grace Gomez. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
