The SM by the Bay at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex was abuzz with energy and excitement as SM Supermalls, in collaboration with RunRio, successfully mounted Pride Run 2024 on Saturday, June 22. The run united Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transexual, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) members and allies in a festive celebration of inclusivity and equality, drawing participants of all abilities and from all walks of life.
BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director Angela Wieneke (second from right) presents a check amounting to P500,000 to LoveYourselfPH Head of Administration and Business Development Calvin June Sintoy (second from left). They are joined by SM Supermalls’ Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno and RunRio President Rio de la Cruz.
At the crack of dawn, over 5,000 runners registered for 10km, 5km, and 3km dashes assembled for their respective gun starts. Each runner was geared up with their Pride Run singlets, race bibs, and timing chips, ready to hit the pavement in a show of solidarity and support.
The festivities didn’t stop at the finish line. The fun continued with electrifying performances from a lineup of artists, including Dey XD, Andy Crocker, Moonlight, and the sensational Taylor Sweft, who kept the atmosphere lively and festive.
The participants also showed off their most creative and colorful outfits in the much-anticipated Costume Contest, adding an extra layer of fun and flair to the event.
The morning’s festivities culminated in an awarding ceremony to recognize the top runners and standout participants of the event. Finisher’s medals, specially designed for this inaugural event, were handed out, symbolizing both achievement and solidarity.
The first Pride Run, organized by RunRio in partnership with SM Supermalls and supported by ArenaPlus, BingoPlus Foundation, LoveYourselfPH, Pantay Inc., and the Metro Manila Pride Organization, proved to be more than just a race. It was a celebration of diversity, a commitment to inclusivity, and a powerful statement of support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
SM Supermalls is dedicated to promoting inclusivity by creating safe spaces for everyone, especially women, children, and the LGBTQIA+ community. To know more about SM Supermalls’ programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.
