The Manila leg of the 2024 National MILO Marathon. Jeck Batallones, ABS-CBN News

MANILA -- The highly-anticipated Manila leg of the 2024 National MILO Marathon started just after midnight on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay City.

This is the fourth leg of the season, with an expected participation of over 20,000 individuals who traversed the routes across the streets of Pasay and Manila.

According to MILO Sports head Carlos Sampan, the turnout surpassed initial expectations.

"We were expecting double from last year's participants … Nagsama-sama ang mga families, 'yung mga communities na hindi lang mahilig sa running, but bumabalik na to having an active lifestyle," he said.

Among the runners in the 21-km distance was 61-year-old Edwin Bien, a seasoned marathon participant with three decades of experience. He recently completed the prestigious Albay 100 Ultramarathon.

The marathon transcends personal achievement, as many participants brought their families along. Taekwondo athlete Japoy Lizardo, accompanied by his wife and children, highlighted the event as an excellent opportunity for family bonding.

"[It's] a very fun experience for us and very memorable for us," said Lizardo. "We ran as a family. First time ng kids ko rin to run a marathon."

There were side activities as well, including a cheer dance competition.

After the Manila Leg, the race will set foot in Puerto Princesa (May 12), Legazpi (June 2), Cavite-Vermosa (September 22), Tagbilaran (September 29), Roxas (October 6), Iloilo (October 20), Bacolod (October 27), General Santos (November 10), Davao (November 17) and Tarlac (November 24). The National Finals will be held on December 1 in Cagayan de Oro.