Southstar Drug and Maxicare Healthcare Corporation’s Run For Wellness officially kicked off June 22 at the University of the Philippines Diliman, where over 9,000 participants celebrated wellness journeys—the biggest turnout for both a Run For Wellness leg and a UP Diliman run.
Participants embraced the “Unleashing Greatness” theme across 3km, 5km, and 10km categories, enjoying the campus’s lush greenery rain or shine.
“For us, ‘Unleashing Greatness’ isn’t just a theme,” stated Thaddeus Sanchez, General Manager of Southstar Drug. “We believe everyone has the potential for a healthier and more active life, so we designed Run For Wellness to be that inclusive, impactful spark to help Filipinos discover and achieve their personal best in wellness.”
Continuing their healthcare advocacy, Southstar Drug and Maxicare donated ₱1,000,000 worth of equipment to UP Diliman’s Health Service and Security Departments, received by Vice Chancellor Jerwin Agpaoa, UP President Angelo Jimenez, and Health Service Director Olivia Basuel.
Participant Marga Banaga, a mom and content creator completing her first official 5km run in 38 minutes, shared: “Eleven months ago, I was 60 pounds heavier and would not be able to do something like this. The energy today, the crowd, and the community gave me the push.”
Celebrity attendees including Gabbi Garcia, Sam YG, and Jo Sebastian supported the wellness advocacy. “When it comes to wellness, I don’t pressure myself or treat it as a race. It’s more of a commitment to staying healthy,” said Garcia, who led 5km warm-ups.
“This event is a powerful reminder that taking charge of your health can be an enjoyable and communal journey,” said Raymond Hernandez, Chief Customer Officer of Maxicare Healthcare Corporation.
The next Run For Wellness leg happens in Naga City this September 2025. Registration details will be announced on Southstar Drug’s social media pages.
