AROUND 2,000 runners took to the streets of Davao Global Township on Sunday for the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) Anniversary fun run, a significant increase from last year’s turnout.
EastMinCom chief Lt. Gen. Rex Luis Bergante led the event, joined by chief of Unified Command Staff Col. Jorry Baclor, Major Ramel Vilocura, ACUCS for RRA – assistant chief of Unified Command Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, other officers, military personnel, civilian stakeholders, and the media.
In his message, Bergante highlighted the event’s growth. “Last year, we had about 1,000 runners; this year we have 2,000,” he noted. “Of the 2,000, 1,000 were our civilian friends who ran the 10-kilometer route, while 1,000 military personnel ran the 3-kilometer run”
He then challenged the military participants to aim higher for the following year.
“So next year, military personnel will run 10 kilometers. Can we do that?” he asked, to which the troops enthusiastically responded, “Yes, Sir!”
Beyond the physical activity, Lt. Gen. Bergante underscored the event’s broader purpose.
“This is just an awareness that we include in this event, that the West Philippine Sea is ours, so let’s not forget that,” he said.
He concluded his remarks by thanking and congratulating the organizers, facilitators, and all the runners for their participation.
“Again, see you next year. Thank you very much,” he added.
Photo courtesy of EastMinCom
