OVER 3,000 runners are expected to participate in the ‘Takbo para sa West Philippine Sea’ event on September 8, starting at Limketkai Mall in Cagayan de Oro.
The event aims to express support for the Philippines in its territorial dispute with China over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
West Philippine Sea spokesman Commodore Jay Tristan Tarriela said the run symbolizes the nation’s resolve not to cede any part of its territorial jurisdiction in the WPS to China.
On August 16, Tarriela emphasized that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s primary goal is to raise awareness among Filipinos about the WPS resources, which he insists belong to the Philippines.
“Even though Mindanao is far from the West Philippine Sea, this fight concerns all Filipinos,” Tarriela told reporters.
He passionately urged Filipinos to unite in the defense of the WPS, referencing the national anthem to remind everyone of their shared responsibility.
Proceeds from the run will purchase educational materials to help Filipinos better understand the WPS issue.
Tarriela acknowledged the Philippines’ limited maritime resources compared to China but expressed gratitude for the support from the House of Representatives.
Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, who has been vocal about the illegal intrusion of Chinese vessels in the WPS, reaffirmed his commitment to raising the issue in Congress.
“Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Philippines has sovereign rights over the 200-mile exclusive economic zone,” Rodriguez said.
Rodriguez, along with Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez and Philippine Information Agency Regional Director Franck Gumapon, welcomed Tarriela to Cagayan de Oro to promote the event.
The ‘Takbo para sa WPS’ run has previously been held in Pasay, Cebu, Dapitan, and Baguio, with race categories ranging from 2K to 16K. The event is organized by Runrio Inc., and those interested in participating can register on the Runrio Inc. website.
