FundLife’s ‘Move for Play’ Kicks Off Philippines’ First 116KM Community Run to celebrate UN Day of Play, Highlighting Need for Safe Spaces and Children’s Rights

Manila, Philippines – In celebration of the UN International Day of Play this June, FundLife, a Tacloban-based non-profit organization committed to protecting and empowering marginalized children, is launching Move for Play: Infinity Run—the Philippines’ first-ever 116 km split-stage XXL Community Run, taking place from June 14 to 15, 2025.

FundLife leverages the power of running to champion every child’s right to safe, inclusive spaces. By harnessing sport and movement, Move for Play aims to raise awareness and inspire grassroots advocacy for children’s rights.

Spanning from Clark to Makati and covering a distance equivalent to nearly three full marathons, the Infinity Run will take a small group of ultra-runners across rural landscapes and dense urban corridors. More than a physical test of endurance, the run is a symbolic call to action—spotlighting inequality, visibility, and the need for every child to have a safe space to play and grow.

The run’s total distance—116 kilometers—is symbolic of the UN International Day of Play, observed on June 11. It serves as a powerful reminder that play is not a luxury, but a universal right every child deserves, every day.

“We believe every child deserves a right to safe-play,” said Marko Kasic, Executive Director of FundLife. “Through Move for Play, we’re celebrating the freedom of movement that every child should have—the ability to run, explore, and play without fear. This campaign is about inspiring action, raising awareness, and creating a future where every child can run, explore, and thrive in safe, supportive spaces built with them in mind."

According to UNICEF, only 31% of urban populations globally have access to safe public play spaces. In the Philippines, challenges such as traffic congestion, urban crime, and economic disparity continue to limit children's ability to play safely and develop in healthy environments. For many Filipino children, especially in high-density communities, the joy of safe play remains out of reach.

The Infinity Run will be divided into four stages, with checkpoints every 29 kilometers. Runners of all fitness levels are welcome to join any stage—not just ultra-distance athletes. Strength and Conditioning Coach Dana Lora, a Girls Got This ambassador and leading advocate for Move for Equity, another FundLife initiative, will join the final 29 kilometers stage.

“I’m not the most avid runner,” Lora shared, “but this is a cause worth pushing myself for.”

Also joining the run is the campaign’s international ambassador, Natalie Dau—globally recognized ultra-endurance athlete, Founder of Project 1000, and Guinness World Record holder. Just last month, Dau completed an awe-inspiring 1,000-kilometer run across Luzon, further solidifying her reputation as a powerhouse of resilience and determination.

“Movement is a universal language that breaks down barriers,” said Dau. “Supporting Move for Play aligns with everything I stand for—creating space, visibility, and opportunity for children to grow up safe and strong. Running 116KM is a small step if it helps others take their first.”

Beyond the run, FundLife is working closely with grassroots communities and local government units (LGUs) to build safe play areas, deliver education programs, and train local mentors who champion every child’s right to a joyful and secure childhood. Current efforts are focused on Leyte, where FundLife is leading the construction of two community play and learning centers in partnership with LGUs and local stakeholders.

Runners who complete the first 105 kilometers will gather at Ayala Triangle at 6:00 AM on June 15 to complete the final 11.6 kilometers. This final stage is open to the public, welcoming casual runners to run alongside and cheer on the endurance athletes as they cross the symbolic finish line together.

To participate in the Infinity Run at Ayala Triangle and stay informed on event updates, follow FundLife’s official social media channels for announcements leading up to the event.

For inquiries, email FundLife at hello@fundlife.org or visit www.fundlife.org.