53-year-old Rosario runner wins 4 medals at national masters athletics tilt

ROSARIO, Cavite — A 53-year-old athlete from this Cavite town brought home four medals from the Philippine Masters Athletic Championship held May 15 to 17, 2026 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

Mansueto Ceralvo, a native of Calinog, Iloilo who now resides in Rosario, won gold in the 800-meter run, silver in both the 1,500-meter run and the 4×400-meter relay, and bronze in the 3,000-meter event. He was the sole representative of Rosario in the national competition for masters athletes.

Local officials wasted no time in honoring Ceralvo upon his return. Mayor Jose Voltaire V. Ricafrente said the veteran runner serves as an inspiration to residents, proving that success knows no age limit as long as one has discipline and dedication.

Vice Mayor Bamm Gonzales said the entire town takes pride in Ceralvo and expressed hope that he would serve as a role model, particularly for the youth, in living a healthy and active lifestyle.

Ceralvo is also a member of the Rosario Runners, a local running club headed by Councilor Mike Giongco.

Giongco urged residents to take care of their health while they are still physically able, noting that there will come a time when the body can no longer keep up with one’s ambitions.