JEREMY Danao beamed with pride as he watched his younger siblings shine at the Manila leg of the 2025 Milo National Marathon. And rightly so, for it was a triumph for the family with a shared passion and unwavering support.
Though a former varsity athlete himself, the 24-year-old Jeremy chose to stand on the sidelines that warm Sunday morning, his focus solely on coaching Jericho and Jasphine. He’d taken time off from his demanding work in Malabon, his day job in meat processing, to witness his siblings’ dreams take flight.
And what a flight it was.
Jericho, his 12-year-old brother, crossed the finish line at the SM Mall of Asian Seaside Drive of the 3-kilometer male event in a remarkable 10 minutes and 50 seconds for the gold.
“Nag-focus lang po ako sa pacing ko, like Kuya Jeremy told me,” said Jericho, whose kuya began teaching him the ropes at the tender age of six.
The celebration doubled when Jasphine secured a hard-earned second place in the 5-kilometer female category. Though initially listed fourth, a successful protest rectified the error, and she stood tall, with her time of 21 minutes and 51 seconds.
“Masaya po. Maganda ang ruta,” Jasphine said.
Jeremy, a husband and father of two, understood the importance of fitness from the beginning. Despite his busy life, he finds time to run the roads of Malabon and the local sports complex oval, with Jericho and Jasmine often tagging along. He’d instilled in them a love for the sport of running, guiding them on open roads, patiently nurturing their talent.
“Tinuturuan ko silang tumakbo sa open road. Si Jericho, last year lang. At ngayon pa lang nagiging pursigido,” said Jeremy.
Jericho’s newfound dedication held the promise of a brighter future. With the NCR Palarong Pambansa qualifiers looming, Jeremy was determined to see his little brother succeed.
“Pinakundisyon ko siya nang maayos, para hindi mag-cramps sa kanyang pag-takbo. Kaya dire-diretso siya at walang injury. Mage-NCR Palaro pa kasi siya,” added Jeremy.
For the Danaos, the 2025 Milo National Marathon was more than just a race. It was a story of family, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the potential of those you love.
Jeremy’s heart was full that fateful March morning as he watched his siblings chase their dreams. He knows they will succeed, because they are fuelled by his guidance and love.
