Big turnout at "Run" for children

CEBU, Philippines - The “run for children” initiated yesterday by Mandaue City councilor Demetrio Cortes, Jr. generated a big turnout.

Chinette Bulanon, in-charge of the registration said all the 1,700 prepared singlets pegged at P150 each were all taken out and yet many joined the run in their own outfit.

The 5 am race which started and finished at Parkmall parking area had three categories: 3K, 6K and 12K. The proceeds of the activity is intended for the sustainability of feeding program for school children especially in Leonard Wood Elementary School in Barangay Jagobiao.

“I am happy and thankful for the big turnout because we were expecting less, this means that many are showing their concern and counted themselves as part of the solution to the malnutrition problem among our children,” said Jun Cortes who said the activity is one way of celebrating his 62nd birthday this Wednesday, October 26.

He said using the proceeds, they will conduct a simultaneous feeding this Wednesday in schools identified by education officials.

 “I wish God will give me good health so I can serve the people throughout my life,” said Cortes.

Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes who later joined his elder brother in the program said the project is very laudable and fully supported his brother’s cause as he greeted him “happy birthday.”

All the first ten finishers in the respective category were given giveaways instead of prizes.

One participant of the 12K category who was the last one to arrive at the finish area said he is keeping his own pace to complete the run.

“What is important is I have joined the run with my intention to help the children,” said Will Noel, one of the members of Mandaue Airsoft Group who joined the race.

Other participating groups include, Cebu Ultra Runners Club, Total Image Clan gym, Mandaue City Police Office, teachers from the Department of Education-Mandaue City Division by Superintendent Virginia Zapanta and her assistant Nimfa Bongo, Metaphil, Shangri-la Resort Hotel, among others. Other participants included Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede, city councilor Emmarie Ouano-Dizon, Banilad Barangay Captain Dianne Bercede-Abanes, among others. (FREEMAN)