January 31, 2025

Gotta catch 'em all: First-ever PH Pokemon Run kicks off Feb. 9 as part of Pokemon Fun Day

Gotta catch
Opening the Pokemon Fun Day event: Tsutomu Kondo, Animation International PH Director; Rio dela Cruz, RUNRIO President and CEO; Susumu Fukunaga, The Pokemon Company Asia Business Development Corporate Officer; and Joaquin L. San Agustin, SM Supermalls Group Head-Executive Vice President.

Running enthusiasts will now get their chance at catching them all as the Pokemon Run 2025 fires off this February 9 at SM Mall of Asia Complex.

This is the first time that The Pokemon Company partnered with RUNRIO to hold the fun run in the Philippines.

"We’re happy to be part of making this happen, which is a first in the country. We were all Pokemon fans when we’re young and it’s just a treat for us to bring these creatures to life and blend them in with our love for running," said RUNRIO president and CEO Rio de la Cruz.

The impact was instant, as the 10,000 slots for the run was sold out in just 15 minutes.

Over 3,000 joined for the 10,000 km race, nearly 4,000 signed up for the 5 km edition, and over 2,000 will participate in the 3 km version.

There will also be over 800 participants for the 1 km fun run, which welcomes kids and families.

"Majority of our participants are actually newbies. We are very, very happy that this will be helping our running community to grow more," de la Cruz noted.

Runners will not only get the traditional race bib and Pokemon-themed race shirt, but will also get a Pokémon TCG fun pack and playmat.

They will also get a Pikachu-themed finisher's medal and participate in various activities inside the race area.

"You will be able to celebrate with Pikachu," de la Cruz added.

The race was only limited to 10,000 this year to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the runners.

 A Pokemon-themed race shirt, medal, race bib and more await the runners who will join the Pokemon Fun Run, as presented by RUNRIO President and CEO Rio de la Cruz.

It’s all part of the Pokemon Fun Day presented by SM Supermalls which will kick off its nationwide tour at The Block Atrium in SM North EDSA from January 31 to February 13.

Fans will have a chance to explore a supersized Pokemon event space featuring a giant six-meter Pikachu inflatable, together with attractions such as a free Pokémon Trading Card Game tutorial sessions, licensed collectibles like Pokémon toys and apparel, Pokémon trading cards, and a Pokémon video game demo area.

@onesportsphl

POKÉMON TRAINERS, ASSEMBLE! ?? The Pokémon Fun Day has begun at SM North EDSA, bringing an exciting experience for Pokémon fans of all ages! Visitors can enjoy Trading Card Game tutorials, a Pokémon Meet & Greet, and a chance to snap a photo with a giant inflatable Pikachu! Runners will also get a chance at catching a Pikachu medal during the Pokemon Run on February 9 at the SM Mall of Asia. The adventure continues as Pokémon Fun Day travels to various SM malls nationwide until October. #OneSports #OSOnTheSpot

? original sound - OneSportsPHL

"It's really a great experience for everyone and we invite everyone to enjoy this Pokemon experience with us," said Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls group head and executive vice president.

The Pokémon Fun Day caravan will go on rounds in 12 other SM malls such as Mall of Asia, Southmall, East Ortigas, Taytay, Angono, Marikina, San Mateo, San Jose del Monte, Caloocan, Fairview, San Jose del Monte, Davao, and Iloilo until October 2025.

(With reports from LJ Abadinas/One Sports Digital)

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