Thousands take to streets for Alay-Lakad

CEBU, Philippines - Thousands people mostly from the youth attended the yearly walk “Alay-Lakad 2009” here in Cebu City.

The two starting points were the Plaza Independencia and the Fuente Osmeña Circle, walkers met at the Cebu City Sports Center where a program was held.

Volunteers were joined by Acting Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, Cebu City north district Rep. Raul del Mar and former senator Ralph Recto in yesterday’s Alay-Lakad 2009.

 Former Air Force 1st Lt. Ashley Acedillo, who is also the national spokesman of Samahang Magdalo said that it was the biggest attendance so far.

 “Samahang Magdalo joined the Alay-Lakad because we believe in the vision and mission of this yearly walk,” Acedillo added.

The success also is in terms of donations and pledges that had been received by this year’s Alay-Lakad.

The contributions of the Alay-Lakad are recognized by its youth beneficiaries, as well as by the government and private individuals and organizations who join the activity.

It is through Alay-Lakad that government and non-government organization generate resources to enable needy out-of-school youth to engaged in livelihood and other developmental projects, thereby giving the youth potential to become self-sufficient and responsible citizens.

These socio economic projects include skills training on various occupational trades, income-generation projects community scouting, leadership training and cultural activities.

People from all walks of life annually gathered to join to activity.

Meanwhile, The Rotary Club of Toledo West also held their Alay-Lakad during their 37th year anniversary yesterday with the theme: “Piso ko palamboon mo, halad ko alang kanimo.”

The activity was spearheaded by chairman of Lakad Committee, James Dellosa of Cebu 3rd Engineering District, also President of the Rotary Club of Toledo West.

The parade started as at 6 a.m. led by the RCTW.

Joining them were the delegates from the Department of Public Works and Highways-7, and the 78th Infantry Battalion headed by Brig. Gen. Jessie Dellosa, Central Command deputy commander, and Lt. Col. Raymundo Bañares.

Toledo City mayor Arlene Zambo and Vice-mayor Rudy Zambo also joined them along superstars Christopher De Leon, and Patrick Dela Rosa, stand-up comedian Mojak and songstress Maureen Lopez of GMA.

The highlight of the said event was the proclamation of this year’s Ms. Alay-Lakad that instantly collected a hefty amount of almost P80,000 during canvassing done a night before dubbed as Alay Sayaw ’09, a dance for a cause party proceeds of which went to the street children of Toledo City.— Johanna T. Natavio and Niña G. Sumacot/BRP (THE FREEMAN)