CEBU, Philippines — Close to 2,000 participants turned out for the first ever University of the Visayas Alumni Association, Inc. (UVAAI) Fun Run 2023 over the weekend starting and ending at the UV-Main grounds along the historic Colon Street in Cebu City.
Aside from the cash reward for the winners in both the 3K and 5K categories, exciting prizes were also given away during the post-race raffle draw while the rest went home with an assortment of freebies from sponsors.
For UVAAI President Engr. Rizalito Casinillo, the highly successful event is a strong manifestation that everything is possible with the support and cooperation of everyone involved.
“I personally am so happy and fulfilled while running on the most famous and the oldest street in the Philippines, known as Colon street, and Parian street. Running together with my family while having fun and good bonding was such a one of a kind experience. Also, seeing the old faces of the alumni together with their families elated me and the thousand of students who were enjoying the run makes my heart so happy,” said Casinillo.
“To my fellow UV alumni and to our university officers headed by no other than our active and very supportive school president and CEO in the person of Dr. Conrado E. Inigo Jr., to the organizers and sponsors, the success of our fun run was a clear result of team’s effort and collaboration. Thank you UVAAI for a very successful endeavor,” Casinillo continued.
UV Athletic Director Dr. Cresencio “Chris” Mejarito shared the same sentiment.
“Indeed, the UVAAI Fun Run was of great success. It is because of the synergy and collaboration of people with great energy and dynamism,” said Mejarito.
“We would like to congratulate each and every one most especially to the unwavering service of the UVAAI officials, supportive UV administration, active and participative student body, employees, parents, our huge number of sponsors, and to all the participants,” Mejarito added. “Above all, thank you to our almighty and loving God for keeping us safe and sound during event. Once again, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much!”.
More than nurturing a healthy lifestyle, those who took part in the fundraiser hit the road for a worthy cause, making their run more meaningful and purposeful considering that all proceeds will benefit the poor but deserving UVAAI scholars.
“Grateful kaayo mi sa tanan nga niapil,sa mga sponsors, ug labi na gyud sa UV ug sa UV Alumni Association officers. Dako kaayo ni og mahimong tabang ang proceeds sa run sa atong mga scholars,” said UVAAI treasurer Atty. Darling Chyrmyth Wagas-Estorgio, who is also the associate dean of the Gullas Law School. — (FREEMAN)