MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines’ bid to break the Guinness world record for the most number of swimmers in a non-stop 24-hour marathon relay gained headway with the Department of Education’s support to the Peace and Unity Swim slated Dec. 10 at the Diliman Preparatory school on Commonwealth Ave., Quezon City.
In an advisory dated July 30, the DepEd enjoined its officials and personnel to join the epic event under the government’s principle of “one vision, one mission, common values, common goals, different strategies.”
“DepEd as a huge organization is mandated to develop the country’s human capital which will shape the future of the Filipino race,” the DepEd said, citing DepEd Order No. 39.
The marathon relay aims to break the Guinness record, currently held by Italy, for most number of swimmers in an 18.3 swimming pool in a 24-hour period.
Former Sen. Nikki Coseteng, president and chief executive officer of the DPS, and the Susan Papa Swimming Academy are spearheading the advocacy swim whose primary aim is to bring together all sectors of society – national athletes, celebrities, government officials, corporate officials and employees, media, children and the elderly and any Filipino who can swim the distance – to an important activity in a show of peace and unity.
“The event aims to impart the concept of swimming as a complete, injury-free sport, which Filipinos must learn and enjoy as a physical activity because we are nation of islands,” said Coseteng. “At the same time, the event is an important occasion for all sectors to demonstrate their spirit of unity and peace through sports.”
“We look forward to a new Philippine record as Filipinos from Aparri to Jolo prepare and contribute their 15 seconds for the success of this national effort,” Coseteng added.
The latest Guinness record, accomplished last June, involved 5,028 runners who swam the same distance in 24 hours. Coseteng said the DPS and the SPSA hope to gather over 6,000 runners to set a record that will stay in the books for a long time.
The marathon will continue, even after the record has been exceeded, to establish other Guinness marks in terms of hours swum and distance covered.
For more information, call up Susan Papa, cellphone No. 0917-805-5885, tel. No. 8079886 or email sansueboy@hotmail.com; Diliman Preparatory School website at http://dilimanprep,edu.ph or email address swimrelay@diliman.edu.ph prep