PRNY Celebrates 12 Years of Voluntary Service, Supporting Filipino Runners at the New York City Marathon

NEW YORK CITY – For 12 consecutive years, a dedicated group of Filipino running enthusiasts has made the New York City Marathon more meaningful for Filipino and Filipino-American runners through an inspiring tradition of volunteerism, encouragement, and community support.

Known as PRNY (Pinoy Runners of New York), the group was formed by Filipinos who shared a passion for running and wanted to give back to fellow marathon participants. Many of its founding members were once marathon runners themselves, allowing them to understand the physical challenges, determination, and emotional encouragement needed to complete the iconic five-borough race.

Today, PRNY has grown into a community of approximately 230 members, including 57 active runners, under the leadership of Roland Ocampo.

For members Remy and Frankie Parayno, a husband-and-wife team, volunteering at the marathon is an experience they eagerly look forward to every year.

“We are happy to support the runners and provide whatever they need during the race, whether they are Filipino, Filipino-American, or runners from other communities. Everyone is welcome,” the couple shared.

In its early years, PRNY volunteers stationed themselves near Mile 14 to cheer on participants and distribute food and drinks. This year, the group moved its volunteer station to Mile 14, strategically positioning itself near the halfway point of the marathon, where runners often need additional encouragement, refreshments, and motivation to continue.

The group also takes pride in having members who have achieved impressive marathon times. Among them are Danny Craves, who recorded an outstanding 2 hours and 30 minutes, and Analyn Morhaim, with a finishing time of 3 hours and 28 minutes. Their running experience further strengthens the group’s understanding of the challenges faced by marathon participants.

Other dedicated members, including Ellen Relos, Owie Abragan, Bong Collera, Beloy Aderes, Marna Pabillore, a former member of the Philippine Karate Team, and Jennifer Tan, are among those who enthusiastically volunteer their time and resources each year.

Beyond handing out food and drinks, PRNY represents the spirit of Filipino bayanihan—helping one another through generosity, friendship, and community involvement.

Twelve years later, PRNY continues to demonstrate that the New York City Marathon is not only about crossing the finish line but also about the people who make the journey memorable. For these Filipino volunteers, the greatest reward is seeing runners smile, regain their strength, and keep moving toward their dreams.