‘Karera Lakas Pinas’ obstacle run spices up Marines Day

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Marines, the Navy’s highly-trained and elite combat arm, celebrate their 63rd anniversary with the Cobra “Karera Lakas Pilipinas” Commandant’s Cup,  a challenging obstacle run also open to civilians on Nov.  10  at the sprawling Gregorio Lim Marine Barracks grounds in Ternate, Cavite.

“We are opening the ‘Karera Lakas Pilipinas’ to civilian runners and to the public so they can get a glimpse into the tough and grueling life of the Philippine Marines,” said Marissa Monsanto Falvo  of Lakas Pilipinas Inc. in yesterday’s PSA forum at Shakey’s Malate in Manila.

“The Marine motto of ‘Karangalan, Katungkulan and Kabayanihan’ are the values that Cobra is proud to be associated with and in keeping with our own slogan ‘Lakas ng Pinas,’” said assistant brand manager Karlene Sebastian in the event also supported by R.O.X., RUNNR, Toby’s, Residencia Boracay, Rudy Project, Fenix Corp, Absolute Fitness, Olive Juice Concepts, Payment Passage, Goofy Foot Media and SJF.

“By holding this event, we would like to recognize the heroic and gallant efforts of the Philippine Marines in times of war and peace.” 

“On behalf of Philippine Marine Commandant Maj. Gen. Romeo Tanalgo, we would like to thank Cobra and our other supporters in celebrating the 63rd anniversary of the Corps,” said Lt. Col. Stephen  Cabanlet of the Marine Corps Special Service Command.

“This event is open to civilian participants who want to experience a slice of Marine life,” he added. “By joining us in this event, we hope that Filipinos will appreciate the effort in making the Marines an integral and effective part of the armed forces.” 

The Corps was  formed on Nov. 7, 1950 under the late President Elpidio Quirino with then Defense Secretary Ramon Magsaysay playing a key role in organizing the efficient and well-disciplined armed unit.

Aside from battling insurgents and terrorists, the Marines also spearhead humanitarian and relief efforts during times of typhoons, floods and earthquakes. The United Nations have also tapped them as peacekeepers in global conflicts.

Those who would like to join this one-of-a-kind race can register at R.O.X and online at www.lakaspilipinas.com <http://www.lakaspilipinas.com>  .  Registration deadline is on Nov. 7.

Named after one of the early Philippine Marine commandants, the Gregorio Lim Marine Barracks grounds is the site of the obstacle course where Corps recruits undergo intensive physical training and conditioning to whip them into top fighting shape.

Falvo said that part of the proceeds of the Cobra “Karera Lakas Pilipinas” 5 and 10-kilometer obstacle runs  will go to the repair of the Warrior’s Grill Obstacle Course and the Corps’ recovery and reintegration program for Marines injured while performing their military duties.