IT was 4:25 a.m. when I joined full marathon runner Michael Isip of Honolulu, Hawaii in a taxicab to reach our destination between Embarcadero and Market Street, the starting line for full and first-half marathon runners. Unfortunately, in a hurry to avoid being late, Michael left his cellphone in the taxi; it contained important work-related data. Without losing hope, he remained focused on the full marathon and maintained his composure and positivity. For the first time in its history, the 48th San Francisco Marathon iconic full marathon race was sold out. This unprecedented achievement underscored the growing popularity of the race and its unique appeal to runners worldwide.
The sold-out status for the 2025 full marathon signified a monumental milestone for the event, which has captivated runners with its breathtaking course, challenging hills, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline.
“This is a testament to the incredible community of runners who embrace the challenge and beauty of our course. To achieve a sell-out for the full marathon, for the very first time, is a truly historic moment for us and reflects the dedication of our team and the passion of our participants,” said Race Director Lauri Abrahamsen.
While Michael was running, I was doing the initiative. With the help of kind-hearted Marie Grace, Lucia Catalano, Erin Nantell, and Suzanne Shelley of the Information Section of the San Francisco Marathon 2025, and some Spanish-speaking volunteers (Brandon Lopez, Axel Lopez, and Isabel Gonzalez), I was able to get in touch with the taxi driver, Jesus Benjumea.
Marie Grace lent me her personal Wi-Fi gadget so I could use it in covering the finish line between Embarcadero and Howard Street. Michael smiled when I told him the good news, and he was grateful to Marie Grace and others from the San Francisco Marathon 2025’s Information unit for the assistance.
Aiko Kumano, a first-half marathon runner, was able to get in touch with the driver. Finally, runners Aiko and Michael met the kind driver of San Francisco.
Indeed, not only did the San Francisco Marathon events offer participants a memorable journey through some of San Francisco’s most fascinating neighborhoods and landmarks, but you could also see and feel the kindness of the people of San Francisco.
Thanks to the handiwork of God. We live with a purpose in life.
In LA’s Hollywood, I saw so many celebrities taking good care of their pet dogs and/or cats. Likewise, in Green Valley, Fairfield, California, USA, I saw how our neighbors consider them as part of the family.
When I covered the recent San Francisco Marathon 2025 in the Bay Area in Northern California, I saw some dogs with their owners joining the marathon. It was a nice and touching sight to see, and I was happy.
In the house of my niece, fashion designer Ann K. Isip, I witnessed how well-behaved Emma (a formerly abused female husky who was adopted) and Rae (a male Dalmatian) are.
I have learned to love these good dogs.
I was surprised to see the abstract painting done by young, artistically inclined brothers Nigel and Seb Bourque. I saw this work of art hanging on a wall in a dining room.
I hope to see more paintings from them.
Philstagers Theater, in commemoration of its 25th year, presents the highly anticipated and grandest musical about the life of the Philippines’ Great Plebeian, BONIFACIO ANG SUPREMO, Isang Musical, which is written and directed by Vince Tañada with music by Pipo Cifra. It is showing on a national tour starting August 2, 2025, to April 2026.
With a cast of more than 50 prized talents of the Philstagers Ensemble, the said musical is the most awaited theater event of the year that “will inspire, change the lives, and transform the Filipino people.”
U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson welcomed graduates of the U.S. Department of State’s Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) to the U.S. Embassy for the second Philippines Summit. DTI Philippines Assistant Secretary Grace Baluyan and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte joined Ambassador Carlson to congratulate the graduates.
Co-organized with SPARK Philippines, the summit brings together over 70 AWE alumni from seven locations across the country for a three-day workshop and immersion to boost their entrepreneurial skills, followed by a trade fair in Quezon City.