CEBU, Philippines — It’s mission accomplished for the members of the DPWH Run Club led by Atty. Brando Ray Raya in the AIA Cebu Marathon 2025 last Sunday, January 12, starting and ending at the SM Seaside City grounds passing through the iconic Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX).
In all, 26 runners from DPWH Central Visayas Regional Office under the guidance of coach Arvin Loberanis saw action in the grueling footrace that drew a record 12,275 participants from over 40 countries all over the world.
Three of them conquered the punishing full marathon distance of 42.195 kilometers namely Francis Ervin Ancit, Kennith Bensig, and Ray Joseph Epiz.
Raya made up the list of 25K finishers together with Remfel Lor, Marife Ellaca, Judy Pano, Nikko Harold Punay, Farizza Ann Rupal, Clauden Pacaldo, Suzette Sumayo, Christian Del Mar, Faith Marie Borden, Bran Joseph Romares, Jonell Eumague, Adrell Lapinid, Rachelda Señagan, Edward Butcon, Demy Jane Salazar, Jasmayne Marinay, Renan Arias, and Jupert John Remollo.
Their teammates Shaleem Tiannok, Vernon Abadilla, Joana Marie Dayanan, and Edgardo Bascug Jr. hurdled the 12K course.
DPWH prides itself on being the first agency in the region with a running club.
It was formed in June 2024 through the initiative of Raya, who understands the importance of achieving a healthy balance between work and wellness.
“As an avid runner, I recognize the potential for a shared hobby to unite us, making it a meaningful endeavor for all involved,” said Raya.
“Organizing the club came with challenges, particularly in appealing to individuals from different offices and addressing barriers such as coordination and engagement,” Raya continued. “However, with determination and the support of key individuals, like our mentor and head coach Arvin Loberanis, we overcame these hurdles.”
Raya shared that their primary goal is to promote physical health, an active mind, and a shared vision among members through sports while reinforcing personal discipline and deepening connections among their colleagues.
“Our success in the Cebu Marathon 2025 is a testament that through hard work, determination, and mutual support, nothing is impossible,” said Raya. “All of us in the club inspires everyone to continue running and inspiring other people. Being busy is not an excuse to not become healthy. This achievement is not just for ourselves but also for our colleagues who continuously inspire us. It serves as a reminder that a team working together can accomplish any obstacles.”
“Looking ahead, we plan to continue participating in runs and marathons to sustain our mission and inspire others to stay active. We also aim to organize internal activities, such as team fun runs and outreach programs, to extend the positive impact of this initiative to a larger community, particularly here in Cebu,” Raya ended. — (FREEMAN)