Garmin Unveils New Forerunner 70 and 170 Series Smartwatches to Empower Every Runner

MANILA, Philippines – Garmin has expanded its running smartwatch lineup with the launch of the new Forerunner 70, Forerunner 170, and Forerunner 170 Music, giving beginner and aspiring runners access to advanced training tools, health tracking features, and long-lasting battery life in stylish, easy-to-use devices.

Designed specifically for runners, the latest Forerunner models feature a vibrant 1.2-inch AMOLED display, responsive touchscreen controls, and Garmin’s trusted 5-button interface, making navigation simple whether users are training outdoors or managing daily activities. The watches also include smart notifications, wellness tracking, and extended battery performance that eliminates the need for nightly charging.

According to Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing, the new devices bring premium running technologies from Garmin’s higher-end models to a broader audience. She emphasized that the watches are built to support runners at every stage of their fitness journey while providing valuable health and wellness insights.

The Forerunner 70 offers essential running features such as built-in GPS, pace and distance tracking, wrist-based heart rate monitoring, and adaptive training tools. New quick workout options generate personalized sessions based on a runner’s preferred duration and intensity. Users can also benefit from Garmin Coach training plans, daily suggested workouts, training readiness insights, wrist-based running power metrics, and running dynamics. Beyond running, the smartwatch includes over 80 sports applications, covering activities like swimming, cycling, and strength training.

Health monitoring is another key highlight, with features including advanced sleep tracking, sleep coaching, heart rate variability (HRV) status, Pulse Ox monitoring, breathing variation analysis, and comprehensive health status reporting. The Forerunner 70 delivers up to 13 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and is available in several vibrant color options.

Building on those capabilities, the Forerunner 170 introduces additional convenience features such as Garmin Pay™ contactless payments, allowing users to make purchases directly from their wrist once the service becomes available in the Philippines. Meanwhile, the Forerunner 170 Music enables phone-free listening by allowing users to download songs, playlists, and podcasts from supported music streaming services for playback through wireless headphones.

Both Forerunner 170 models provide up to 10 days of battery life and are offered in multiple color combinations designed to match different styles.

Customers can now pre-order the new smartwatch lineup through Kinetic and Garmin’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop ahead of the official launch on June 3. The Forerunner 70 is priced at PHP 15,990, while the Forerunner 170 and Forerunner 170 Music are available for PHP 19,290 and PHP 22,290, respectively.

With these latest additions, Garmin continues its mission of helping runners and athletes stay active, improve performance, and make every step count.

HUAWEI Brings Elite Precision to Filipino Runners with the Launch of the WATCH GT Runner 2

HUAWEI is set to raise the bar for running technology in the Philippines with the upcoming launch of the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2, a next-generation smartwatch designed specifically for serious runners and performance-focused athletes. Marketed as the lightest titanium smartwatch for runners, the device combines advanced tracking precision, intelligent coaching tools, and long-lasting durability in a sleek, ultra-light form factor.

Co-created with marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, the WATCH GT Runner 2 reflects the needs of elite athletes who demand both accuracy and comfort. The smartwatch is engineered to feel nearly weightless on the wrist while delivering professional-grade performance insights that help runners train smarter and push beyond their limits.

At the heart of its design is aerospace-grade titanium construction paired with second-generation Kunlun Glass, offering durability without compromising comfort. With an ultra-slim 10.7mm profile and a weight of just 43.5 grams, the watch is built for long-distance performance while maintaining a premium feel suitable for everyday wear.

One of the standout innovations of the WATCH GT Runner 2 is its industry-first 3D Floating Antenna technology combined with the XDR Positioning Algorithm. This advanced positioning system ensures highly accurate GPS tracking even in challenging environments such as dense urban areas, tunnels, and high-rise districts where traditional smartwatch tracking often struggles.

Beyond navigation accuracy, the smartwatch introduces professional-level training support features. These include full-phase marathon coaching, Real-Time Lactate Threshold Detection, and Running Posture Analysis. Together, these tools allow runners to monitor fatigue levels, optimize training intensity, and improve efficiency while reducing the risk of injury.

Health monitoring remains a central feature of the device as well. Powered by HUAWEI TruSense technology, the watch delivers up to 98 percent heart rate accuracy comparable to chest strap monitors. Additional features include ECG tracking, heart rate variability analysis, and advanced sleep monitoring, giving users a comprehensive view of their recovery and overall wellness.

Battery performance is another major strength of the WATCH GT Runner 2. Users can expect up to 14 days of battery life under typical usage and up to 32 hours of continuous GPS tracking, making it ideal for marathon training and endurance athletes. The watch also supports both iOS and Android devices for flexible compatibility.

Pre-orders for the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 run from April 17 to April 23, with early buyers eligible for an exclusive bundle worth PHP 13,384. A special early-bird discount of PHP 3,000 is already available starting April 8.

First 116KM Community Run in the Philippines Logs 3.5 Million Steps to Champion Children’s Right to Safe Play

Manila, Philippines – More than 3.5 million steps and over 2,500 collective kilometers were logged during the Move for Play: Infinity 116KM Run, the country’s first-ever open-road ultra-endurance community run. Organized by the non-profit organization FundLife, the event held from June 14 to 15 brought runners from Clark to Makati in a call to action for safe, inclusive, and accessible play spaces for children in under-resourced communities. The run coincided with the United Nations International Day of Play and was conducted on active roads and highways, requiring participants to navigate traffic, potholes, heat, and city congestion. The 116-kilometer route symbolized the difficult and often dangerous terrain many Filipino children must cross daily to access education and recreation.

A total of 31 ultra-runners registered to complete the full route, while over 40 additional runners joined for various segments. 20 completed the entire course in a feat of physical endurance and social purpose. Leading the finishers were ultra-endurance athlete Natalie Dau and community runner Cecille Wael, who crossed the finish line together at 6:23 a.m. after completing the 16-hour, 12-minute run.

Dau, who also served as an ambassador for the campaign, used her platform to amplify the message behind the movement. Her race updates and advocacy posts reached more than 100,000 people organically. “It was a tough day—the heat, the distance, the traffic—but we all knew why we were out there,” said Dau. “Running 116 km was never about personal achievement; it was about showing up and showcasing what’s possible when we move with a clear purpose. I’m proud to support Move for Play, and I’ll continue using running as a way to raise awareness and help more children access safe spaces where they can grow, play, and just be free to move.”

Fellow finisher Wael was both personal and shared. “Running for those who can’t make this experience deeply meaningful,” she shared. “Pushing my limits while sharing the road with old friends and new faces reminded me of the power of community and collective action.”

Following close behind was Jonathan Ballogan, a proud Ifugao native and the fastest male finisher, who completed the run in 16 hours and 21 minutes. “This wasn’t just a test of endurance—it was about resilience and purpose,” he said. “I ran not only with my feet, but with the support of the people who supported me through the pain.”

The campaign’s success was made possible through a network of six community-based organizations and running clubs that extended crucial logistical and volunteer support. Among them was Mountain Goats Pilipinas, led by seasoned ultra-runner Joseph Sibal, also known as Papi Otep. “When I heard about the vision behind Infinity 116, it struck a chord. It wasn’t just another long run—it was about uplifting others,” Sibal shared. “That’s why I brought our Mountain Goats community to support. We believe running builds communities, and this run embodied that. It was a meaningful way to stand with FundLife in bringing play to children who otherwise wouldn’t have safe spaces.”

In parallel with the Luzon-based run, a youth-led campaign in Dulag, Leyte, engaged more than 280 community members in a series of local activities promoting children’s right to safe spaces. These included a 6.11-kilometer coastal community walk, an art-for-sustainability workshop involving over 50 children and youth, and a 1.16-kilometer advocacy parade during the Karumata Festival that concluded with a community play session. The Move for Play campaign brought together 14 running communities, five partner organizations, and four volunteer groups across Luzon and Leyte. The effort marked a significant milestone for FundLife as it laid the groundwork for its upcoming initiative, Safe to Move—a long-term campaign focused on building protected, dignified spaces for learning, movement, and play in climate-affected and under-resourced areas. Plans are also in motion to expand the Infinity 116 run into a nationwide series, welcoming not only runners but also walkers, volunteers, and play champions across the country.

“The Infinity Run showed how sport and purpose can intersect to drive meaningful action,” said Marko Kasic, Executive Director of FundLife. “We will continue moving until every child has a safe space to play, learn, and thrive.”

For more information about FundLife’s ongoing campaigns and upcoming activities, visit www.fundlife.org or contact the team at hello@fundlife.org.

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.

Filipinos Run 130,000 Kilometers in FundLife’s ‘Move for Equity’ Campaign for Gender Equality and Girls’ Safety

Manila, Philippines — More than 1,300 Filipinos ran a combined 130,000 kilometers as part of FundLife’s nationwide Move for Equity campaign, a movement turning physical activity into a show of solidarity for girls facing barriers to safety, education, and opportunity. The campaign, led by non-profit organization FundLife, invited participants across the country to complete 3.8 kilometers of movement each day over the entire month of March. This symbolic distance represents the daily struggles many girls must overcome just to reach school, access healthcare, or navigate public spaces safely. Culminating on International Women’s Day, Move for Equity asked the public to dedicate their steps to girls who are too often denied the freedom to move safely in their own communities.

Driven by the rallying call to action “Move for Every Girl Who Can’t,” and held in partnership with Girls Got This and global athletic brand ON Running, participants were encouraged to align their physical efforts with a broader social purpose. In total, over 1,300 people joined the campaign, logging more than 130,000 kilometers in support of gender equality and girls’ rights.

Public runs in Tacloban and Makati, held on March 9, served as campaign highlights. In Tacloban City, more than 150 individuals gathered at the historic Old Leyte Provincial Capitol, including students, youth leaders, civil society organizations, and local government officials.

Simultaneously, about 480 runners took over Ayala Avenue in Makati City—one of the country’s busiest business districts, which became a platform for visibility and shared advocacy. “Girls are told where they can go, how to behave, and what they should aspire to,” said Marko Kasic, Executive Director of FundLife. “Move for Equity is about challenging that narrative. We’re not just running for visibility—we’re running toward a world where every girl is safe, supported, and seen.”

The campaign was further amplified by 22 advocates and content creators, who shared their personal motivations on social media. Among them was Dana Lora, a strength and conditioning specialist and campaign ambassador, who completed the 3.8-kilometer challenge daily.

“Every step I took was for the girls who still don’t have the freedom to move without fear,” said Lora. “Movement is more than exercise—it’s advocacy.”

Founded in 2014, FundLife uses sport and education to create safe spaces for marginalized children. Through daily programming and its growing Move Series, which includes Move for Peace, Move for Life, Move for Equity, and the upcoming Move for Play in June 2025, the organization promotes inclusive, community-led action for long-term social change. “This is not just about sport,” Kasic added. “It’s about dignity, justice, and collective responsibility. If we can make the world safer for girls, we create a more equitable future for everyone.”

To learn more about FundLife’s mission or to join the Move for Play campaign this June, visit https://tinyurl.com/moveforplay2025, follow @fundlifeint on social media, or explore the organization’s work and initiatives at fundlife.org.

Running for a Greener Future: The GCash Eco Run plants over 76,000 trees through the support of Green Heroes and Partners

The time, effort, and dedication needed to train for a race or marathon make crossing the finish line so rewarding for many runners. In the same way, creating a greener, more sustainable future requires the same level of collective commitment.

More than just a race, the first-ever GCash Eco Run turned the streets of Ayala Avenue, Makati, into an eco-movement. Over 12,000 eco-runners laced up their shoes—not just to set personal records but to make a lasting impact on the environment. With the support of its event sponsors and sustainability partners, this milestone initiative has already planted 76,000 trees across 11 hectares in the Negros region.

A race that goes beyond the finish line

In support of the South Negros Reforestation Initiative, a long-standing partnership between Silliman University and GCash, each sign-up to the GCash Eco Run contributed to the planting of a grey stilted mangrove tree in Negros Occidental. GCash doubled their commitment by pledging an additional tree for every participant. This means that the runners alone contributed 24,000 new trees.

Grey stilted mangroves play a vital role in environmental conservation as they mitigate the impacts of extreme weather and sequester carbon while providing habitats for marine life. As a result, mangrove forests are some of the most effective natural ecosystems for carbon storage today, making them a crucial asset in the fight against climate change.

In line with its commitment to using tech for good, the GCash Eco Run served as a platform to raise awareness of sustainable living, bringing together partner organizations and eco-conscious brands to share their advocacies and inspire collective action.

Organizations championing various sustainability advocacies joined, such as Berdeng Kalaw, which collects paper and metal for recycling; Caritas Manila, which turns clothing donations into funds for scholars; Zolo, which resells and recycles e-waste; and Aling Tindera, which gathers plastic waste for recycling.

Attendees also explored products from the partner eco-merchants such as Cut the Craft, Bukid ni Bogs, Wonderhome Naturals, Eco Shift, and Commune. They also got their GCash VISA cards from 100% recycled plastic.

GCash makes it easy for partners to drive positive change by bridging them to Silliman University, turning commitments into real action. With the support of 8 companies working together for a greener future, a total of 52,000 trees will be planted in Negros on top of the 24,000 trees from the eco runners.

Continue taking steps for the environment with GForest

GCash continues to make sustainable living easier and more accessible for every Filipino. Through GForest, every transaction on the GCash app, such as cashing in, sending money, paying bills, buying load, or even taking 20,000 steps a day, earns green energy points, which users can redeem to plant virtual trees and contribute to a greener future.

Together with various partner organizations, GCash transforms these into actual trees, planted in key areas around the country, demonstrating how GForest serves as a Tech for Good platform.

“Much like how GForest turns virtual trees into actual ones, the GCash Eco Run brings together our community of Green Heroes, driven by a shared purpose to create real-world impact—one step, one tree, and one action at a time," said CJ Alegre, GCash Head of Sustainability.

The biggest digital eco-movement is now even bigger. Every step, every action, and every tree planted brings us closer to a greener future. Be a green hero today and sign up by tapping GForest on your GCash app dashboard.

The GCash Eco Run is supported by corporate partners who also pledged trees, such as IKEA Philippines, Globe AT HOME, Pay & Go, and eTap Solutions. This effort strengthens Silliman University's mangrove reforestation efforts.

Mench Dizon Becomes First Filipina to Complete Both World Marathon Challenge and World Marathon Majors

[MANILA, PHILIPPINES - February 2025] In a remarkable display of grit and determination, Mench Dizon has become the first Filipina to complete both the prestigious World Marathon Challenge and the World Marathon Majors, earning her place in Philippine history with an achievement defined by ambition, perseverance, and national pride.

The World Marathon Challenge is one of the most grueling endurance events in the world. Participants run seven marathons on seven continents in seven days—a test of physical stamina, mental strength, and sheer willpower. Over 168 hours, Mench ran consecutive 42.2-kilometer races in Ultima Basecamp (Antarctica), Cape Town (Africa), Perth (Australia), Dubai (Asia), Madrid (Europe), Fortaleza (South America) and Miami (North America). Battling extreme weather conditions, jet lag, and minimal recovery time, she crossed the final finish line in Miami on February 6, 2025, conquering an extraordinary physical and mental challenge, a feat achieved only by an exceptional group of athletes who have pushed the boundaries of human capability.

Mench is no stranger to pushing boundaries. She has been an avid marathoner since 2008 and in 2017, she earned the coveted Six-Star Medal by completing all six races in the Abbott World Marathon Majors (WMM)—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City. The WMM is widely recognized as the pinnacle of global marathon running, attracting the world's top runners and dedicated amateurs.

With her latest accomplishment, Mench becomes the first Filipina to complete both the World Marathon Challenge and the WMM, marking a historic milestone for her country. She is also the second Filipino to ever accomplish this feat, following Dr. Potenciano “Yong” Larrazabal III, who completed both in 2020. Notably, Filipino-American runner Julie Uychiat has also completed both the World Marathon Challenge and the World Marathon Majors, making her the first Fil-Am Filipina to achieve this distinction.

“I’ve always believed that running is more than just a sport—it’s a way to challenge ourselves beyond what we think is possible,” said Mench, who wrote about fighting negative thoughts, injuries, and fatigue, at the website Road 2 Seven. “Completing the World Marathon Challenge was not just about proving my endurance, but about using my passion for a greater purpose.”

Beyond personal achievement, Mench embarked on this journey to raise PHP 7 million to establish a new digital education center for the Sisters of Mary School, which provides secondary education and vocational training to nearly 8,000 students from underprivileged backgrounds across the Philippines. The planned facility will equip students with skills in blockchain, AI, robotics and other emerging technologies, preparing them for high-demand careers in a fast-growing industry.

As the Country Head of Yield Guild Games (YGG) Pilipinas, Mench has been at the forefront of the Metaverse Filipino Worker (MFW) movement, empowering Filipinos to build careers online as an alternative to working abroad as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). With the global Web3 industry valued at USD 3.2 billion in 2021, and projections for it to reach USD 81.5 billion by 2030, she sees education and digital upskilling as critical tools in ensuring Filipino talent can compete globally—without needing to travel overseas for work. The World Economic Forum estimates that emerging technologies will generate 97 million new jobs worldwide, underscoring the urgent need to equip young Filipinos with future-ready skills.

“If we can bridge the digital skills gap, we can create sustainable pathways for Filipinos to thrive in the global economy without having to leave their home country and their families behind,” Mench added. “For me, this race was more than just a physical challenge—it was a testament to the relentless pursuit of progress that empowers Filipinos to succeed on their own terms.”

The MFW campaign launched a short film on YouTube that honors the creativity and determination of the YGG Pilipinas community, spotlighting the unique human-centered stories that are driving a new era of work and innovation. Garnering over 1 million views in less than two weeks upon its release, the movement continues to gain momentum and inspire more Filipinos to explore new career paths in digital industries that offer economic mobility and global opportunities, no matter where they are located.

With her unstoppable drive and unwavering vision, Mench Dizon’s achievements embody the indomitable spirit of Filipinos pushing boundaries—whether from home or across borders—by forging new paths, embracing challenges, and proving what is possible on the world stage.