MAKILALA, North Cotabato, Philippines – The Team Highbound of Davao City emerged as the toughest among the 14 teams that saw action in the grueling first “Takbo Alay sa Kalikasan” Extreme Team Trail Run held Friday as part of the Kalivungan Festival here.
Bannered by marathoners Joselito Dugos, Angelito Sibayan and Vivian Averconzado, Team Highbound completed the 31.2-kilometer endurance race in just three hours to earn P40,000 and a trophy.
They started running at 6:32 a.m. from Bongolanon in Magpet and passed by Kidapawan City to end up in New Israel, Makilala at 9:42 a.m.
The People’s Runner Club also from Davao City played by Klent Panerio, James Castillo and Cherie Jaro followed closely at 9:44 a.m. to settle for second place and earn P30,000 with a trophy.
Third was Tagum City composed of Elmer Bartolo, Junel Boncit and Judelyn Miranda at 9:46 a.m. They went home with P20,000 and a trophy. Davao City Rescue Team represented by Ronald Dagaang, Maro Ecalner and April Diaz crossed the finish line at 10:09 a.m. to bag fourth place to pocket P10,000 and a trophy.
A total of 14 teams had joined the footrace held in celebration also of the 97th provincial foundation day. The event was organized by the province under Gov. Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza to also promote and develop Mt. Apo alternative tourism-adventure activities and destinations both for local and national clients.
“The support group of each team also had their part by conducting a tree planting activity at the designated area after the race,” said over-all festival coordinator Joey Recimilla.
Jorge Silva and Vergielita Guilaran were the activity coordinators.