Filipino long-distance runner Arlan Arbois Jr. delivered a powerful and emotional performance to capture the silver medal in the men's marathon at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok. His podium finish, combined with a bronze from compatriot Richard Salaño, secured two medals for the Philippines in the grueling event held on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
An Emotional and Strategic Race
The marathon was a test of endurance and mental fortitude for Arbois. He started strong, taking an early lead, but was overtaken by two Indonesian runners by the three-kilometer mark. Maintaining his composure, he stayed with the leading pack until the 10K point before falling behind by a gap of approximately 50 meters.
The challenge intensified at the 15-kilometer mark when Arbois was sidelined by a painful side cramp. Forced to slow his pace, he strategically ran behind another competitor to recover. His perseverance paid off as the pain subsided around the 18K mark, allowing him to resume his target pace and begin a methodical chase.
The final stretch turned into a dramatic pursuit. By the 38th kilometer, Arbois had closed in on one of the Indonesian frontrunners. "Last four kilometers, I was crying while running because I was in second place," Arbois revealed in an interview with SunStar Davao. "For the last two kilometers, I just kept thanking God until the finish."
Hard-Earned Victory for Family and Country
Arbois crossed the finish line with a time of 2 hours, 30 minutes, and 19 seconds, earning the silver medal. Indonesia's Syianturi Robi took gold with a time of 2:27:33, while Richard Salaño completed the Philippine double by securing bronze with a time of 2:31:29.
Upon finishing, the athlete's thoughts immediately turned to his loved ones and his nation. "The first thing that came to mind was that people back home would be happy that two Filipinos made it to the top three," he said. The 28-year-old dedicated his medal to his family, his partner, and the future he hopes to build.
The Road to the Podium
Arbois's journey to this silver medal was built on rigorous preparation. In the months leading up to the SEA Games, he underwent intensive high-altitude training for three months at the Teachers' Camp in Baguio. His daily regimen was demanding, featuring:
- Long runs lasting two to three hours to build endurance.
- Speed sessions of up to two hours to improve his pace.
Originally from Sitio Second Barrio, Barangay Miasong in Tupi, South Cotabato, Arbois moved to Davao City in 2015 as a varsity scholar at Rizal Memorial Colleges. He continues to stay with his coach, Charlie Hifarva, when he returns to the city.
This year's improved government support for national athletes, which included full team privileges, allowances, and meals, allowed Arbois to focus entirely on his training and competition. This silver medal marks an improvement from his performance at the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia, where he also won silver with a time of 2:33. His personal best record stands at an impressive 2:24:23.
Following his triumphant but exhausting race, Arbois plans to rest for two weeks before resuming training in January. His next major goal is the Tokyo Marathon scheduled for March. His story in Bangkok is one of pain, prayer, and ultimate national pride, adding another glorious chapter to Philippine athletics.
