Manila: Thousands of runners from the four provinces of Ilocos Region are set to join the Kalasag-Dagat community run early Friday, demonstrating unity and strengthening public awareness of the significance of the West Philippine Sea.
According to Philippines News Agency, the event, initiated by the Police Regional Office-Ilocos (PRO-I) based at Camp Brigadier Oscar Florendo in San Fernando City, La Union, will be held simultaneously across four provinces in the region. The run aims to show support for the role of coastal communities in promoting environmental stewardship, maritime security, and national unity.
Organizers have stated that the community-run event seeks to promote patriotism, solidarity, and public awareness of the country's maritime interests and disaster resilience while encouraging healthy, active lifestyles. The simultaneous runs will symbolize Ilocanos' collective commitment to support initiatives that uphold the Philippines' maritime rights and national interests.
"Tomorrow, we don't just run-we run with purpose," said the PRO-1 in a Thursday statement. Besides fostering unity, the activity aims to strengthen collaboration among government agencies, local government units, and community stakeholders through shared advocacy for awareness and civic participation.
Pre-registered participants in the 3K, 5K, and 10K run categories are enthusiastic, seeing it as a chance to showcase unity, promote fitness, and engage the community. Organizers urged public participation in the Kalasag-Dagat Community Run, which demonstrates Ilocos Region communities' commitment to national causes, camaraderie, patriotism, and active citizenship.
On July 18, the Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. visited the region and served as the keynote speaker for the Ilocano Dialogue on the West Philippine Sea held at the Ilocandia Cultural Center in Batac City, Ilocos Norte. The dialogue, attended by over 700 participants from youth, academe, government, and religious groups, focused on the government's maritime security initiatives and community roles in defending national sovereignty under international law.
