Tzu Chi Charity Run 2025 finally hits the road in support of scholars

February 10, 2026

Tzu Chi Charity Run 2025 finally hits the road in support of scholars

Thousands of kind runners take to the streets for scholars’ future

By Thania Florendo

After weeks of anticipation and two weather-related postponements in 2025, the Tzu Chi Charity Run 2025 finally unfolded at Bridgetowne Destination Estate on February 8. The event was welcomed not with frustration, but with relief, laughter, and the eager energy of thousands of participants.

The buzzing excitement of the 6,866 runners was palpable as they stepped forward—not merely to complete a race, but to fulfill a promise to 1,511 academic scholars and 80 Technical-Vocational scholars. The Tzu Chi Charity Run had become more than a comeback event but was a collective victory powered by patience, resilience, and a shared desire to do one good deed.

As the firat batch of runners gathered at the starting line, they were welcomed by loud drum beats and opening remarks from Tzu Chi Deputy CEO Peggy Sy Jiang.

“This year, our Charity Run, with you joining, registering, and paying for your run, you’re actually helping our scholars get a better future,” she said. “Again, we want to thank you for joining us on our third reschedule.”

The Kind Runners arrived full of anticipation and excitement, eager to share their experiences. Volunteers, staff, and scholars contributed their full support to ensure the event ran smoothly. Along the route, they cheered and filled reusable cups with water, supporting both fast runners and steady walkers alike.

At the finish line, fatigue quickly transformed into celebration. Medals were highlighted in photo opportunities, and early finishers lined up for freebies and loot bags inside the race village. Participants congratulated one another, including unfamiliar faces who had become brief companions bound by the same course.

“This year and the 2024 charity runs were both great. It’s an 11/10 experience,” said 10K runner Leonida Tuliao, a second-time participant. “People were greeting and cheering each other on. The whole area was convenient and clean, and the route was well planned.”

Tuliao also praised the use of silicone cups at the hydration stations, noting Tzu Chi’s commitment to environmental sustainability and care for Mother Earth.

Seasoned 33-year-old runner Christian Delos Reyes, running the 10K alongside his wife, said the event was more than a physical challenge.

“I’ve joined before and saw that it was a very organized event,” he said. “What makes this special is that you don’t just run for a cause—you also enjoy the run while helping others. I love doing charity work and building a community at the same time. We also get to help those who need it. Thank you so much for organizing this event. Hopefully, it will continue yearly, and for all the runners out there, let’s continue to support Tzu Chi. We can help a lot.”

Tzu Chi volunteer Dr. Anton Mari Lim, a member of the planning committee, shared the journey the Tzu Chi Foundation underwent following the event’s postponements.

“It was difficult to keep the motivation up, but the organizers and volunteers stayed focused on the goal—raising funds to sponsor over 1,591 scholars,” he said. “That became a strong motivation for everyone, including the runners. And then finally, we were able to complete the run. As they say, the third time’s a charm—and it truly was. The turnout was amazing, and the support we received was overwhelming.”

He also highlighted that the event extended beyond Metro Manila, with simultaneous runs organized by Tzu Chi’s provincial offices and virtual participants, bringing the total turnout to 7,617.

“What’s beautiful about this is that the run didn’t happen only here. Other runs were held in different areas, and we even had virtual participants from as far as Bicol in the north to Zamboanga in the south. Each runner shared the same goal— running for compassion and running for education. That’s what unites everyone.”

RUNRIO General Manager Andrew Neri congratulated the Tzu Chi Foundation for surpassing last run’s participation numbers and for staging a successful event.

“I’m a fan of the Tzu Chi Foundation,” he said. “We support their advocacy, especially in environmental protection and education. We continue to partner with them because we are confident that the help extended truly reaches those who need it most.”

Finishers walked away with medals and raffle prizes, but the greatest prize was the hope and support their steps brought to scholars and families. The kindness continues beyond the finish line.

Tzu Chi scholars held handmade banners along the route to cheer and encourage runners during the Charity Run.

The large-scale event was a collective effort of Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines, ensuring smooth preparations through coordinated task delegation.

Tzu Chi academic and tech-voc scholars arrange the coin-can–inspired medals for distribution at the finish line.

The scholars have a separate booth inside the Race Village where they sell artworks and charity run merchandise.

Tzu Chi scholars man the start area as eager 10K Kind Runners prepare to begin the race.

Charity Run hosts Jane Sy and Spencer Sze hype the runners while highlighting the cause of the run.

Tzu Chi Philippines Deputy CEO Peggy Sy Jiang delivers a powerful message, emphasizing that even the smallest contribution can help secure a better future for the scholars.

The beat of the drums from Northern Rizal Yorklin School’s Wushu, Dragon, and Lion Dance Team set an energetic tone for runners in their respective categories.

Tzu Chi volunteers (from left) Spencer Sze, Johnny Kwok, Anton Mari Lim, Judy Lao, Molita Chua, Peggy Sy Jiang, and Jane Sy gather for a photo at the start line before the run.

Kind Runners dashed forward, fueled by excitement, purpose, and unstoppable spirit.

Cheers from the scholars along the route reminded runners of the meaningful impact of their efforts.

With laughter and smiles all around, some participants enjoyed the run at a leisurely pace.

Some runners brought their fur babies to the run since it is a pet-friendly venue.

Some chose to push their limits and aim for a personal best.

From pairs to packs, runners hit the track, sharing laughter, purpose, and fitness all at once.

Runners enjoyed the fresh air and inspiring presence of the Victor statue.

Tzu Chi scholars assist in awarding medals to runners at the finish line.

10K finisher Leonida Tuliao described the Tzu Chi Charity Run 2025 as an 11/10 experience.

Christian and Jeanna Delos Reyes, who completed the 10K, expressed their excitement for future runs and said they enjoyed the opportunity to support charitable causes.

The Victor statue was illuminated with the Tzu Chi Charity Run singlet design, creating a striking and inspiring backdrop for the event.

Tzu Chi scholar Danna Mikaela Jepollo shared how personally meaningful the cause is for the beneficiaries.

Runners were treated to a sweet post-run reward—free taho and breadsticks for all—served in silicone collapsible cups to support environmental sustainability.

Sponsor booths drew long lines of runners eager to enjoy the freebies and giveaways.

Runners enjoyed free bananas, generously distributed by Tzu Chi volunteers inside the Race Village.

After the run, runners participated in a cool-down session led by Tzu Chi scholars.

Runners ended strong, enjoying a lively cool-down session.

Scholars took the stage with a spirited performance.

Scholar twins John Welter and Jean Myca Manayaga from Polytechnic University of the Philippines–Quezon City highlight the benefits of their scholarship.