What makes Cesar run?

BACLAYON, BOHOL , Philippines  — If actions speak louder than words, it’s clear what’s foremost in Cesar Montano’s mind these days: Reach out to all Boholanos in every way he knows how.

Education tops in his list. He offers continuous support in the education of poor but deserving students under his Panaghoy Children Foundation, Inc. To this day, 60 scholars (30 college students; 28, high school; and two, elementary) benefit in the foundation’s scholarship program.

“Education ng mga bata aayusin ko and also the salary of teachers should be given attention,” Cesar says about his plans if ever he wins in the gubernatorial race here in the May 2010 elections.

He is also focused on health. Cesar knows it is a must to keep one’s body healthy in order to work well. A health buff himself, who runs a five-km. stretch every morning, Cesar recently hold a fun run where Boholanos of all ages, shapes and sizes joined in the event, reaching to 200 participants. There were even some who came from Cebu and registered as early as 5:30 a.m. at Anglewood Tennis Court where the 4.5-km. marathon took off. It was divided into four categories — senior citizens, men, women and children. 

Sponsored by Mega Sardines in cooperation with Western Union, TM and Nature’s Spring, the marathon was organized by Panaghoy Children Foundation, Inc., Municipality of Baclayon with Vice Mayor Bobsie Uy and BRAABO, Inc. Proceeds of the event will be used for coastal conservation and protection of municipality of Baclayon.

“It (running) gives a lot of energy and good for the heart. We all need to take care of our body,” Cesar offers after reaching the finish line in Baluarte Baclayon with record time of 22 minutes.