MANILA, Philippines - Adrenalin levels were high as close to 8,000 runners gathered before daybreak for the biggest family wellness event of the year with running as a core activity — the Unilab Run United for Wellness held at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.
As the crowd swelled to the thousands an hour before gun-off, runners from ages two to 86 years old were taught various stretching exercises to prepare them for the 3k, 5k, 10k, 21k and children’s 500-meter races. Participants eagerly lined up and ran to the finish line, some hoping to beat their own record time. The race was even made more exciting as the reigning UAAP cheerdance champions, the FEU Marching Band and Pep Squad, cheered on.
In line with Unilab’s vision of providing the best healthcare, the Run United for Wellness event was mounted to encourage people — whether runners or non-runners, experienced or newbies, young and old— to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle. It is consistent with the company’s desire to provide every Filipino with an opportunity to improve on their health and wellness.
“Mounting an event as big as this run is our way of showing our commitment in helping the Filipino families enjoy a healthier life,” says Clinton Campos-Hess, president and CEO of Unilab.
The run was also the first event of its kind that encouraged healthy lifestyle for the entire family through fitness activities and good nutrition. Runners who wanted to improve their race time and form received free coaching and tips from professional trainors. A Wellness Village divided into different zones was made available to both participants and spectators, with free medical check-up from St. Luke’s Medical Center.
Female athletes and their families who needed a breather after the race were treated to wash-up and grooming counters, Yoga lessons, refreshments and photo sessions at the Myra Sun Protect Women’s Rest Nest. The Alaxan FR Men’s Health section challenged participants in virtual tennis, boxing and golf games. Older athletes were able to test their strength, flexibility and mental acuity at the Skelan Seniors’ Health station. Free physiotherapy sessions and consultations were also given to senior participants. Athletes who visited the Enervon Multivitamins General Adult Health area enjoyed free massages, reverse bungee rides, hydration drinks and snow cones.
Kids had their own play area at the Ceelin Children’s Health Zone. Giant inflatable slides and play pens, as well as basketball, ring-toss, and virtual reality games delighted children of all ages. Parents who wanted to join the run did not have to worry about leaving their young kids. A separate day care area was set-up for toddlers who were engaged in different creative activities.
The awarding ceremony was led by Unilab president and CEO Clinton Campos Hess. Ryan Agoncillo and multi-awarded triathlete and coach Annie de Leon hosted the program.
Aga Muhlach, Dingdong Dantes, John Lloyd Cruz, Angel Locsin, Diether Ocampo, Alex and Toni Gonzaga, Anthony Pangilinan and Maricel Laxa with their kids, Akiko Thompson, Monsour del Rosario, Alvin Patrimonio, Norman Black, Anthony Suntay and Rovilson Fernandez joined Unilab in their campaign to promote health and wellness. Sen. Pia Cayetano also took the time from her busy schedule to join the 10k run.
The Unilab Run United for Wellness was organized by Unilab, the country’s leading healthcare company that manufactures and distributes over 300 high-quality, over-the-counter, ethical, and personal care products and brands like Alaxan, Ceelin, Enervon, Myra, Skelan and Solmux. Proceeds of the event were given to Children’s Hour and K.I.D.S. Foundation.