A remarkable 900 senior citizens and individuals with disabilities (PWDs) came together in Davao City for an extraordinary community event, the PPP Seniors and PWD Fun Run 2025. This inclusive sporting event, organized by the Pulong Pulong ni Pulong Movement, aimed to promote active aging, wellness, and social inclusion, and it certainly delivered on its promise!
With the inspiring theme, "Padayon Ta (Let's Keep Moving Forward)," the fun run provided a safe and accessible platform for seniors and PWDs to engage in physical activity tailored to their unique needs and abilities. It's a powerful message that everyone, regardless of age or ability, deserves the chance to stay active and feel included in their community.
Jay Villarica, the chief of staff for Rep. Paolo Duterte, emphasized the event's significance, stating, "It's about fostering a sense of movement, confidence, and unity among our seniors and PWDs."
Participants like Merlyn Palabrica, aged 73, and Ligaya Petero, 78, both residents of Barangay Duterte in Agdao, expressed their joy and gratitude for being part of this special occasion. Petero shared, "It's not about winning; it's about enjoying an event designed specifically for us. We're grateful for the opportunity and hope to see more initiatives like this in Davao City."
The race, which started at the crack of dawn at 5 a.m., saw runners flag off from various points across the city, including Bago Aplaya Park, Talomo Junction, and Talomo Bridge. Medical teams, ambulances, and wheelchairs were strategically positioned along the route to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, demonstrating the organizers' commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
All runners were treated to a host of benefits, including free registration, race singlets, meals, souvenirs, and even timing chip-enabled race bibs. The event organizers went the extra mile to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
To participate, runners were required to submit medical certificates and clearances from their doctors, ensuring that their health and safety were a top priority. This attention to detail is a testament to the organizers' dedication to creating a safe and supportive environment for all.
The event wasn't just for runners; families, friends, and supporters lined the route, cheering on their loved ones and creating a vibrant atmosphere. Non-runners also had the opportunity to participate by entering photo and reel-making contests, capturing the highlights of the fun run and sharing them with the community.
A notable message during the run, "Bring Rody, A True Dabawenyo, Home," reflected the continued public support for former President Rodrigo Duterte. Villarica highlighted the former president's deep connection to Davao City's identity, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity.
Davao City second district Rep. Omar Duterte, who attended the event, expressed his gratitude for the strong turnout, saying, "Thank you for joining. We will continue to organize activities that strengthen health and unity in our community."
Rep. Paolo Duterte further emphasized the initiative's impact, stating, "It's crucial to uplift vulnerable and underserved sectors by giving them a platform, meaningful participation, and sustained support." He acknowledged the continued public support for the Duterte family and noted that former President Duterte regularly seeks updates about the people and the city of Davao.
The fun run featured a range of categories to accommodate different ages and mobility levels, including the Super Seniors 5K Run, the Super PWD 5K Wheelchair Division, the Seniors 3K, the PWD Able-to-Run 3K, and a 2K Assisted PWD/Senior category. This diversity of options ensured that everyone could find their place and participate in a way that suited their abilities.
And now, let's take a look at the race results!
For 2K – Wheelchair Assisted (WA):
First: Ecangeline Nogmanao
Second: Epenito Saniel
Third: Aidan John Grino
For Super Seniors – 5K:
First: Reynaldo Sumalinog
Second: Ricky Blanco
Third: Ariel Villamor
For Super PWD – 5K:
First: Antonio Castanol
Second: Aldrin Escobal
Third: Wilfredo Diangco
For Seniors – 3K (Male):
First: Antonio Maluya
Second: Reynaldo Dizon
Third: Noe Almagro
For Seniors – 3K (Female):
First: Lani Lagdamen
Second: Rachel Amuala
Third: Evangeline Pitao
For PWD – 3K (Male):
First: Abe Macario
Second: Kevin Earl Pantaleon
Third: Wendell Rabanuel
For PWD – 3K (Female):
First: Athena Mae Bitacura
Second: Femie Lacaser
Third: Jellian Garrido
The organizers of the PPP Seniors and PWD Fun Run 2025 are thrilled with the event's success, which they believe reinforces the growing demand for inclusive sporting and wellness programs across Davao City. This fun run has set a powerful example of how communities can come together to support and celebrate the diverse abilities and contributions of its members.
So, what do you think? Is this the kind of initiative that should be replicated across the country? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
