Pinoys flock to Siem Reap for amazing sites, destination run

Siem Reap in Cambodia is famous for its rich history and its beautiful temples, including the Angkor Wat complex, making it one of the most visited destinations in the world.

Filipinos have long known of Siem Reap, with so many Pinoys having visited that Cambodian vendors have learned the Filipino language.

Asked by Raffy Tima in the GMA News TV program "Balitanghali" how much she was selling her trinkets for, Cambodian child vendor Scarlet answered, "Tatlo, isang daang piso."

Told that was expensive, she replied, "Mura lang, no mahal."

Destination run

Siem Reap's popularity has also made the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon famous.

It's a destination run that has captured the attention of runners everywhere, given that the 21-kilometer race route had runners passing by famous temples such as Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Tom.

The 10-kilometer route, on the other hand, went by Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple.

So despite it being a race, a lot of runners chose to keep a leisurely pace and enjoyed the sites.

"This has been the best experience for me," said Pinoy runner Ton Magtoto. "Ang ganda ng view. You are running around a world UNESCO Heritage Site."

As to the number of selfies he took during the race, "Ang dami, so I was not running for my personal best. I was running for the best photos I could take, and I think I've done a good job."

Raising money

The race is held every December, and the last time it was staged, more than 10,000 runners from 80 different countries participated.

Furthermore, the half-marathon isn't just about running and tourism, but it also raises money for the Children Hospital of Cambodia.

"Sila, tinatanggap nila 'yung children, they don't turn anyone away kahit sinong batang pumunta sa kanila for treatment tinatanggap nila free of charge," Melissa Henson, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of Manulife Philippines, explained.

So the Angkor Wat Half Marathon isn't just a destination run and a unique sight-seeing experience, but also a special way to help children in need. —Kaela Malig/DVM/KG, GMA News