Filipino community shines in Rome fun run celebrating unity, health

ROME, Italy — The streets of Rome came alive with energy, laughter, and a strong sense of community as 20,000 participants—with a vibrant presence from the Filipino community—joined a major fun run over the weekend in this historic city.

Held last Saturday, March 21, the 5-kilometer non-competitive run transformed select Rome pathways into a festive route, where people of all ages gathered not for just competition, but mostly for recreation, wellness, and solidarity. Among them were Filipino families, friends, and community groups who proudly took part in the event.

Filipino spirit taking strides

From early morning, groups of Filipinos could be seen assembling near the starting area around the iconic Roman Forum and Colosseum. Wearing matching shirts, waving Philippine flags, and taking group photos, they brought a festive and distinct Filipino energy to the event.

For many participants, the fun run was more than a physical activity—it was an opportunity to bond, unwind, and celebrate life abroad.

One of the participating families was the Abanico family—Edu and Lory, together with their children Josh, 24, a runner, and Marcus, 9, who joined the fun run for the second time this year. According to Lory, they wanted to witness and support their son's passion.
 

(right) Teacher Gilbert Agbayani strikes a pose in front of the famous Colosseum of Rome; (left) Gilbert with members of his business group. Courtesy: Gilbert Agbayani

Although she admitted that she is not an athlete, Lory shared, "Iba ang pakiramdam na makasama sa ganitong event—may purpose, may meaning. Maraming learnings sa bawat takbo at hakbang, lalo na kapag nakikita mo ang iba na patuloy na tumatakbo kahit pakiramdam nila ay hindi na nila kaya. Mas masarap din ang pakiramdam kapag kasama ang pamilya, dahil para sa akin, pamilya ang kasama sa bawat takbo at paglalakbay sa buhay."

(It's a different feeling to be part of this kind of event—there's purpose, meaning. Each run and step provides many learnings, especially when you see others who keep on running even if they feel as though they cannot go on. It's a better feeling to be with family, because for me, it's family that joins you in every step and journey in life.)

Meanwhile, teacher Gilbert Agbayani joined the fun run for the first time together with his business partners—not only to experience the event, but also to advocate for a healthier lifestyle, especially among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who often focus mainly on their jobs.

Another inspiring group was the Cupcupin family, who have been joining the annual fun run in Rome for five consecutive years. The family includes Mommy Len Len, 56, Daddy Ferdie, 57, their eldest child Arin, 24, a graduate of Political Science and International Relations in Rome, and Anjo, 16.

"It's heartwarming to think that among so many people from different parts of the world participating, our family is a living example of unity in this event," Len Len shared.

Teacher Gilbert and his group flex their medals from the fun run. (upper photo, from left to right) Gilbert Agbayani, Flory Jane Nicolas, Adrian Andal, and Jessica Guevarra. (lower photo, from left to right) Dianne Cruz, Hanna Morales, Charleston Pena, and Chelsea Pena. Courtesy: Gilbert Agbayani

A run through history

The Acea Water Fun Run's route passed through some of Rome's most historic landmarks, concluding at the Circus Maximus. Participants were free to walk, jog, and run at their own pace, making the event accessible to everyone, from seasoned runners to families with children.

Laughter, music, and cheers filled the streets as runners and walkers alike enjoyed the scenic course. Many Filipinos documented the experience through photos and videos, capturing moments against the breathtaking backdrop of ancient Rome.

The event is known not only for promoting fitness but also for supporting meaningful causes. 

Beyond physical activity and community engagement, this year's event highlighted the importance of water as a vital resource, especially in the context of climate change and ecological transition.

As participants crossed the finish line at Circus Maximus, smiles and a sense of accomplishment were evident on every face. The atmosphere remained festive, with music, cheering crowds, and post-run celebrations.

"It feels like home when you're surrounded by fellow Filipinos," one Pinoy participant shared. "Even in a big event like this, you find your community."

The Cupcupin family at the finish line. Courtesy: Cupcupin family

According to Mommy Len Len, their happiness is unmatched every time they reach the finish line. 

"Anjo is always the first to reach the finish line, and he feels so happy whenever he receives his medal," she said.

"I feel accomplished when I receive the medal after completing the 5km run/walk," Gilbert said. 

"Running and meeting people from different cultures, ages, and races—but with the same goals—is probably one of the most unforgettable experiences I've had."
 
The event also sparked new aspirations.

"Nagkaroon ng inspirasyon ang bunso naming anak. Nagkaroon siya ng ideya na puwede rin palang mangarap na maging runner kahit bata pa," Lory shared.
 
(Our youngest child was inspired. He gained an idea that he can dream of becoming a runner even if he is just a child.)

Gilbert added, "Sasali po ulit ako next year (I'll join again next year) and probably in more fun runs this year as preparation for my bucket list—to run a half marathon and eventually a full marathon."
 
For the Filipinos who joined, it was a five-kilometer experience to remember—with shared memories of joy, health, and togetherness in one of the world's oldest cities.

In the end, the fun run proved to be a celebration of life, culture, and community—where Filipinos, even far from home, ran side by side, united in spirit. — VDV, GMA Integrated News