Government offices, NGOs join in "Earth Run"

CEBU, Philippines – At least 100 members of different organizations in Cebu joined yesterday’s “Earth Run” organized by the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation, Inc. and Global Legal Action on Climate Change.

The fun run was one of the activities of Cebu’s observance of Earth Day this 2009.

The fun run started at the Provincial Capitol and proceeded towards Escario Street, Gorordo Avenue and down to Salinas Drive, Asiatown IT Park, Juan Luna Street, and ended at the Cebu International Convention Center at the North Reclamation Area.

Among those that joined the run include elements of the Lapu-Lapu Police Office, and Philippine Navy’s Naval Forces Central; personnel of the Cebu Port Authority, Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority, Philippine Coastguard, and Transco; and members of the Rotary Club and Mandaue Runners, Incorporated.

Even ordinary civilians joined in with their family and friends.

Wilfredo Pardorla of Talisay City who joined the run with one of his kids said he has been participating in different marathons but he would reportedly prefer to run for a cause than do competitive ones.

Pardorla said joining the “Earth Way” is his small way of showing concern in conserving the environment.

Proceeds of the run will be used for environment protection projects of CCE Foundation.

CCE and GLACC-Cebu hope to advance environmental actions in Cebu by providing latest educational tools and community projects to motivate the public to participate in environmental activities and to encourage the youth to take part in programs that would train them to become “environmental leaders”.

The two groups also aim to engage different businesses establishments to adopt sustainable practices in running their businesses.

Other activities in observance of Earth Day include a symbolic bulb exchange with barangay Centro in Mandaue City wherein residents swapped their ordinary light bulbs for energy-saving ones. — AJ A. de la Torre/JMO (THE FREEMAN)