A TOTAL of 918 senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) participated in the PPP Seniors and PWD Fun Run 2025, organized by the Pulong Pulong ni Pulong (PPP) Movement on Saturday morning, Dec. 13, along the Davao City Coastal Road.
Carrying the theme “Padayon Ta (Let’s Keep Moving Forward),” the activity aimed to promote active aging, wellness, and social inclusion by providing senior citizens and PWDs a safe, accessible, and enjoyable sporting experience.
Jay Villarica, chief of staff of the First District Office of Rep. Paolo Duterte, said the fun run represented the office’s continuing commitment to programs that place health, dignity, and community solidarity at the center.
“This event is about encouraging movement, confidence, and togetherness among our seniors and PWDs. Everyone deserves opportunities to stay active and feel included,” Villarica said.
The fun run featured multiple categories designed to accommodate varying mobility levels, including:
- Super Seniors 5K Run
- Super PWD 5K Wheelchair Division
- Seniors 3K
- PWD Able-to-Run 3K
- 2K Assisted PWD/Seniors
Among the participants were 73-year-old Merlyn Palabrica and 78-year-old Ligaya Petero, residents of Barangay Duterte, Agdao, who shared their excitement over joining the run.
“This isn’t about winning,” Petero said. “What matters is enjoying an event meant for senior citizens and PWDs like us. We’re grateful and hopeful there will be more activities like this in Davao City.”
The race began at 5:00 a.m., with runners setting off from multiple points, including Bago Aplaya Park, Talomo Junction, and Talomo Bridge. Medical teams, ambulances, and wheelchairs were strategically positioned along the route to ensure participants’ safety. All runners received free registration, singlets, meals, souvenirs, and timing chip–enabled race bibs.
Participants were required to present medical certificates and doctors’ clearances prior to joining, while families and supporters lined the route to cheer them on. Non-runners also took part in photo- and reel-making contests.
A prominent visual message during the run read “Bring Rody, A True Dabawenyo, Home,” reflecting continued public support for former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, a figure Villarica said remains deeply rooted in Davao City’s identity.
Second District Rep. Omar Duterte, who attended the event, thanked participants for the strong turnout.
“Daghang salamat sa inyong pag-apil. Daghan pa ang gustong mu-join, ug padayon ta sa mga kalihukan nga nagpalig-on sa kahimsog ug panaghiusa sa komunidad,” he said.
