Salaño, Hallasgo Crowned Champions in National MILO Marathon Finale

Reigning MILO Marathon Queen Christine Hallasgo and Army standout Richard Salaño triumphed in the 42K event of the National MILO Marathon during its final leg in Cagayan de Oro City. In recognition of their extraordinary grit, discipline, and perseverance, the two were awarded the prestigious titles of MILO Marathon Queen and King and secured the honor of representing the Philippines at the 2025 Sydney Marathon.

Determined to defend her crown first claimed in 2020, Southeast Asian (SEA) Games bronze medalist Hallasgo outclassed her fiercest competitors, finishing at 02:59:29, just a minute ahead of Artjoy Torregosa of Agusan del Norte, who clocked in at 3:00:28. Elite runner Maricar Camacho completed the top three in the women’s division with a time of 03:08:21.

Families and kids forge a special bond in running as they blaze over the streets of Cagayan de Oro at the National MILO® Marathon

In the men’s division, Richard Salaño clinched his first MILO Marathon King title with a time of 02:26:29, surpassing top contender Sonny Wagdos, who had led the race but finished fourth at 02:29:39. SEA Games gold medalist Arlan Arbois Jr. landed second with 02:26:38, while Eduard Flores of General Santos placed third at 02:27:34.

Head of MILO Sports Carlo Sampan expressed immense pride in the champions, saying, “Christine and Richard have shown what true champions are made of. Their sheer grit, unyielding discipline, and remarkable perseverance exemplify the values that MILO stands for. We are thrilled to be part of their journey as they step onto the global stage at the 2025 Sydney Marathon. They have proven that determination and passion can take anyone to greater heights.”

All hail the MILO® Marathon King and Queen! Newcomer Richard Salaño and reigning MILO® Marathon Queen Christine Hallasgo emerged victorious at the National MILO® Marathon Finals in Cagayan de Oro City. The two have secured the prestigious prize of participating in the 2025 Sydney Marathon.

Hallasgo and Salaño are now gearing up to face new challenges on the international stage. For Hallasgo, this milestone represents another opportunity to bring honor to the country and inspire future Filipino athletes.

“This win is not just for me, but for everyone who believes in the power of hard work and perseverance,” Hallasgo shared. “Representing the Philippines in the Sydney Marathon is a dream come true, and I will give my all to make our country proud.”

Over 12,600 runners from all over the region brought out their inner champion in the National MILO® Marathon Finals in Cagayan de Oro. For the first time, the National Finals took place in Mindanao.

As a first-time MILO Marathon King, Salaño is embracing this new chapter in his career. “This title is a testament to the years of training, sacrifice, and unwavering faith in my abilities,” Salaño remarked. “I’m excited to compete on the global stage and show the world what Filipino runners can achieve.”