Over 300 runners conquer Tanudan’s hilly roads in Kabataan Fun Run; Youngest is 1-year-old

TANUDAN, Kalinga — More than 300 runners from across Kalinga took on the hills of Tanudan, turning a challenging uphill-and-downhill route into a celebration of youth, sports, and community spirit during the Kabataan Tanudan Fun Run on Saturday, August 22, 2026.

The runners tackled the paved route from the Banagao Gymnasium to the Akwar Lubo Rice Terraces View Deck, testing their endurance while enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery and panoramic views of the Lubo community and its famed rice terraces.

The event was organized through a partnership among the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Tanudan, Pag-asa Youth Association of the Philippines (PYAP), and the Municipal Government of Tanudan, drawing runners and fun-run enthusiasts from different parts of the province.

Participants competed in two categories—3 kilometers and 6 kilometers—with runners braving the demanding terrain and steep stretches along the route.

Speed meets scenery

The race was not only about reaching the finish line but also about bringing young people together through sports.

In the 3-kilometer men’s category, Cyrus Agod emerged as champion, followed by Sincere Ngay in second and Haren Binoloc in third.

For the 3-kilometer women’s category, Chrislyne Sabaway took first place, with Calleigh Paga finishing second and Shena Fame Pittong third.

In the 6-kilometer men’s category, Wowie Annadang claimed the top spot, followed by Claimore Agod in second and Shawn Bancilo in third.

For the 6-kilometer women’s category, Zeny Alicog secured first place, followed by Frances Abigail Wandagan and Jessica Kibayen in second and third, respectively.

The event also recognized participants who brought a different kind of inspiration to the run.

Special awards were given to LGBTQIA+ participant Aaron Fernandez and one-year-old Quiana Maurice Bawer, who earned recognition as the event’s youngest participant.

Not only race, but also with traditional and fun games

After the run, participants had more reasons to stay and celebrate. Lucky runners won appliances and hygiene kits during a raffle draw, while others tested their teamwork and agility in traditional and fun games such as the longest line and sack race, with cash prizes up for grabs.

The Linggo ng Kabataan celebration continued with friendship basketball and volleyball matches, extending the day’s focus on sportsmanship, camaraderie, and youth participation.

Young people, one community

Acting Tanudan SK Federation President Spike Pugao thanked the event’s partner organizations, government personnel, volunteers, and participants who helped make the activity successful.

He expressed particular appreciation to the runners who traveled from different parts of Kalinga to celebrate with Tanudan’s youth.

“I hope and pray nga iti future activities iti SK Federation ket adda kayo latta nga sumuporta, especially dagitoy kabataan iti Tanudan, dagitoy bisita tayo, sala-salamat,” Pugao said.

The success of the Kabataan Tanudan Fun Run showed that sports can do more than test speed and endurance—it can bring communities together, inspire young people to stay active, and create friendships that extend well beyond the finish line.

And in Tanudan, the race may have ended, but the spirit of youth, sportsmanship, and unity continues to run strong.