Steps Toward Change: Heartwarming Tales from our Ka-Globe tACbo Finishers
- lifeatglobe
- Feb 20
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 25
Dive into the inspiring stories of our 3 Ka-Globe runners - Marga, Klarens, and Sandy and discover how their participation in the tACbo Run became a transformative journey – one that connected them to a mission far greater than themselves.
On January 19, 2025, the vibrant atmosphere of Ayala Triangle Gardens was charged with excitement as approximately 6,000 runners gathered for the annual tACbo run, celebrating Ayala’s 191st anniversary. More than just a race, this event represented a powerful movement to support the Ayala Foundation’s education initiatives, with ₱6.2 million raised for the Center of Excellence in Public Elementary Education (CENTEX).
Among the participants were three inspiring Ka-Globe from Broadband Business: Maria Marga Bulao, Klarens Desiree Lopez, and Sandy Montealto, each with their own unique journey that not only transformed their lives but also brought hope to many children’s futures.
Embracing a New Challenge: Maria Marga Bulao's Journey
Maria Marga Bulao joined the tACbo race after a colleague reached out during the holidays, encouraging her to take part. “To be very candid about this and I say this with a smile, I joined because a colleague reached out to me… It’s really Ka-Globe who encourages fellow Ka-Globe to pursue running,” she shares. Despite only starting her training two weeks prior, Marga felt a strong urge to challenge herself.
Finishing it knowing I’m doing it for the first time really lifted my spirits up!
Her limited preparation did not dim her spirit; instead, it fueled her determination. “During my short training period, I loved how it challenged me physically and mentally,” she expressed. Crossing the finish line for the first time was a monumental moment for her: “Finishing it knowing I’m doing it for the first time really lifted my spirits up!” Acknowledging the fulfillment and humility the run brought her, Maria reflected, “It’s for sure a self-discovery and something to strive for.”
It has given me a more sense of purpose to give back to the community through the company I work for.
Not just a personal achievement, Marga’s participation directly impacted the lives of the CENTEX schoolchildren. “It has given me a more sense of purpose to give back to the community through the company I work for,” she noted.
It’s really Ka-Globe who encourages fellow Ka-Globe to pursue running.
Determined to continue her journey, she added, “More running which means the discipline to continue doing this, challenging myself to be consistent first and then better next.”
Finding Motivation in Family: Klarens Desiree Lopez's Inspiring Story
Klarens Desiree Lopez decided to join the tACbo run with her sister, framing it as an opportunity to bond and embrace a more active lifestyle. “Running together made it more fun and motivating—we’ve been talking about doing something like this for a while,” Klarens revealed. New to running, she found that it not only boosted her physical health but also sharpened her mental clarity. “I started to enjoy how running clears my mind and gives me a sense of accomplishment,” she said.
It’s inspiring to know that my participation goes beyond personal growth.
For Klarens, the significance of the experience went beyond her own growth. “It’s inspiring to know that my participation goes beyond personal growth—it helps support the CENTEX schoolchildren,” she reminded herself, emphasizing the vital connection between her efforts and the lives of others. “Knowing that the event contributes to their education and well-being makes it even more meaningful.”
I started to enjoy how running clears my mind and gives me a sense of accomplishment.
Crossing the finish line brought her joy and satisfaction, as she achieved a personal record. “It felt amazing, especially because I hit a personal record! It was such a proud moment knowing all the effort I put into preparing paid off.” Klarens encourages her fellow Ka-Globe to step out of their routines and engage in events like this, stating, “It’s a great way to bond with colleagues in a fun and motivating environment.”
Knowing that the event contributes to their education and well-being makes it even more meaningful.
Looking ahead, her aspirations remain strong. “I definitely want to keep running and improving. I’m thinking about joining more races, maybe even trying longer distances,” she stated excitedly.
A Sentimental Start: Sandy Montealto's 21KM Run Journey
For Sandy Montealto, the tACbo race holds a special place in her heart as it marks the beginning of her running journey. “This is my second year participating, and it feels sentimental to me since it's where I officially started my marathon journey,” she noted with enthusiasm.
I feel really proud of myself because it shows that anything is possible when you believe in yourself.
Already familiar with the thrill of running, Sandy has found a comforting rhythm to her training. “I love running because it energizes me and brings a sense of calm… It’s also great for my health!”
Completing her first half marathon became a milestone Sandy cherished deeply. “I feel really proud of myself because it shows that anything is possible when you believe in yourself,” she expressed, while acknowledging a hint of self-doubt prior to the race. “There were moments when I thought I couldn’t make it… But when I finally saw the finish line, something clicked, and I managed to pick up the pace, flashing a big smile at myself.”
Sandy’s connection to the event goes beyond personal achievement; she values the collective mission to uplift CENTEX’s beneficiaries.
What made it even more meaningful was that the event benefited CENTEX, helping support children’s education.
Sandy encourages her co-workers to join in the fun and laughter of running events like tACbo, because it’s all about enjoying the experience and embracing every step of the journey.
But when I finally saw the finish line, something clicked, and I managed to pick up the pace, flashing a big smile at myself.
Excited for future races, Sandy looks to set new personal records and expand her running horizons, planning to take part in the upcoming GCash run in March.
Joining Together for a Brighter Future
Each of these remarkable Ka-Globe runners brought their own motivations and emotions to the tACbo event, weaving a rich tapestry of personal stories that highlight the transformative power of community and giving back. Through their journeys, they not only found joy in running but also connected with a deeper purpose that extends to the children supported by CENTEX. Together, their collective efforts have contributed to a brighter future for students in need, demonstrating the profound impact that individuals who care can have when they unite for a common cause.
As a Ka-Globe community, we celebrate these inspiring stories and the hope they bring. Let us continue to walk, run, and strive for a better tomorrow, one step at a time. See you at the next running event!
Always a Mc Quarie Run (now Tacbo) participant since 2018, though me and my dog got sick and was not able to run on the day itself. Congrats and more power to Tacbo and Ka Globe!