PASAY CITY—Over 7,000 runners put on their sneakers, headbands and singlets as they took part in the “Run for Peace 2024” held on Saturday, October 12, at the MOA Seaside, this city.

The fun run, spearheaded by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), allowed casual runners and enthusiasts to come together in the spirit of peace and unity.

Originally scheduled for September 21, the event was among the series of activities lined up in celebration of this year’s 20th National Peace Consciousness Month celebration with the theme, “Peace Month @ 20: Bagong Pilipinas – Transforming Minds, Transforming Lives.”

The peace month’s theme is a clarion call to all Filipinos that transformation must begin in their minds and be reflected in their lives.

A call for unity

Deputy Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (DPAPRU) Senior Undersecretary Isidro L. Purisima, who represented Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., emphasized the importance of unity to achieving lasting peace.

“Gusto nating mabago ‘yung kaisipan natin, lalong-lalo na ‘yung tungkol sa kapayapaan. Na sana, wala ng violence sa ating lipunan at tayo po ay magkaisa para magkaroon ng harmony and unity sa ating bansa.”

The event had three categories: 3k, 5k, and 10k. Purisima joined the 3k category, showing his personal advocacy for health and fitness, as well as his and OPAPRU’s commitment to fostering long-lasting peace.

Communities running for peace

The event attracted people coming from all walks of life—from running enthusiasts to whole families, students, professionals, and government workers.

Some even traveled from nearby provinces to participate in the event and show their solidarity with fellow Filipinos in promoting peace.

Pasay Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, whose message was delivered by his Chief of Staff, Peter Eric Pardo, captured the essence of the fun run.

“As we run towards the finish line, we also run towards compromise, understanding, and respect. This fun run encompasses our thrust towards diversity, inclusivity, and unity, so that years from now, when we look back at today, we get to remember a time when we became one with our brothers and sisters, of all ages,” he shared.

Recognizing Peace Champions

James Orduñaz dominated the 10k category, finishing the race in 27 minutes and 55 seconds, bringing home Php50,000.

In the 5k category, Alfrence Braza finished first, clocking in at 18 minutes and 54 seconds and winning Php30,000.00.

Ritchie Estampador secured the fastest time of 12 minutes and 40 seconds in the 3k category, taking the Php 15,000. cash prize.

Globe also awarded the three winners with cell phones.

OPAPRU’s Presidential Assistant Wilben M. Mayor expressed his appreciation to all participants, stressing how their support has helped the national government in promoting the message of peace, cooperation and unity across the country.

Mayor also extended his gratitude to all the sponsors and partners that made the Run for Peace 2024 a success,

They include the House of Representatives, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Department of Health (DOH), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Local Government of Pasay City, Pasay City Health, Pasay City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), Pasay Traffic, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), National Coordinating Body of Clubs for UNESCO, Pusong Ride Guardian Emergency Responder, SM Supermalls, SM Prime, Globe Telecom, Maynilad, Jollibee, Coca-Cola, and the Philippine Basketball Association. ###