Lapid files Senate bill to ensure trouble-free marathons

MANILA, Philippines - Fun runs, marathons and other multi-distance sporting events have become a very popular activity in the country and with its popularity comes the need to ensure that nothing goes wrong for the participants.

With more and more of these runs being organized due to its popularity, Senator Manuel Lapid has called for a review of the policies and standards being implemented for these events to ensure a safe and healthy experience for the runners.

In Senate Resolution 794, Lapid called for an inquiry into the safety standards and practices being implemented for the fun runs, marathons, triathlons and similar multi-distance sporting events in the country.

While most of the organizers of these events have long been engaged in this particular field of interest and provide the best experience for their participants, Lapid said that the popularity of the sport could also bring about the entry of fly-by-night entities whose main objective is to make a quick buck.

“Due to the swelling number of people who are into running, we are confronted with the possible surge of profiteers in sporting events who have no regard for our runners’ and sports enthusiasts’ safety,” Lapid said.

He said that there were a number of instances when the runners complained about the lack of water stations, which are required for all runs.

There were also complaints about lack of portable toilets, race marshals to direct and guide the runners, route markers and even paramedics or medical staff on stand-by in case something untoward happens to some of the runners.

“In some cases, runners dart the course along with speeding vehicles which lead them to think if organizers have secured the necessary permits or if they have coordinated the event with the proper authorities,” Lapid said.

“While these running and multi-distance sporting events serve as a platform to encourage our people’s interest in sports, it is imperative that we ensure the safety and well-being of our runners and sports enthusiasts,” he added.

The popularity of running events here and in other parts of the world is largely due to the fact that it is relatively inexpensive to take part in and easy to accomplish with proper training.

It is also an activity that can build camaraderie and provide a sense of accomplishment for those who finish the runs.