Carrying the theme “Padayon Ta (Let’s Keep Moving Forward),” the activity aimed to promote active aging, wellness, and social inclusion by providing senior citizens and PWDs a safe, accessible, and enjoyable sporting experience.
Jay Villarica, chief of staff of the First District Office of Rep. Paolo Duterte, said the fun run reflects the office’s continuing commitment to programs that place health, dignity, and community solidarity at the center.
“This event is about encouraging movement, confidence, and togetherness among our seniors and PWDs. Everyone deserves opportunities to stay active and feel included,” Villarica said.
Among the participants were 73-year-old Merlyn Palabrica and 78-year-old Ligaya Petero, residents of Barangay Duterte, Agdao, who shared their excitement over joining the run.
“This isn’t about winning,” Petero said. “What matters is enjoying an event meant for senior citizens and PWDs like us. We’re grateful and hopeful there will be more activities like this in Davao City.”
The race began at 5:00 a.m., with runners setting off from multiple points including Bago Aplaya Park, Talomo Junction, and Talomo Bridge. Medical teams, ambulances, and wheelchairs were strategically positioned along the route to ensure participants’ safety. All runners received free registration, singlets, meals, souvenirs, and timing chip–enabled race bibs.
Participants were required to present medical certificates and doctors’ clearances prior to joining, while families and supporters lined the route to cheer them on. Non-runners also took part in photo- and reel-making contests capturing moments from the event.
A prominent visual message during the run read “Bring Rody, A True Dabawenyo, Home,” reflecting continued public support for former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, a figure Villarica said remains deeply rooted in Davao City’s identity.
Second District Rep. Omar Duterte, who attended the event, thanked participants for the strong turnout.
“Daghang salamat sa inyong pag-apil. Daghan pa ang gustong mujoin, ug padayon ta sa mga kalihukan nga nagpalig-on sa kahimsog ug panaghiusa sa komunidad,” he said.
Rep. Paolo Duterte said the initiative underscores the importance of uplifting vulnerable and often underserved sectors by giving them visibility, meaningful participation, and consistent support. He also expressed gratitude for the continued support extended to the Duterte family, noting that former President Duterte regularly asks for updates about the people and the city of Davao.
The fun run featured multiple categories designed to accommodate varying mobility levels, including:
Super Seniors 5K Run
Super PWD 5K Wheelchair Division
Seniors 3K
PWD Able-to-Run 3K
2K Assisted PWD/Seniors
Winners
2K – Wheelchair Assisted (WA)
1st – Ecangeline Nogmanao
2nd – Epenito Saniel
3rd – Aidan John Grino
Super Seniors – 5K
1st – Reynaldo Sumalinog
2nd – Ricky Blanco
3rd – Ariel Villamor
Super PWD – 5K
1st – Antonio Castanol
2nd – Aldrin Escobal
3rd – Wilfredo Diangco
Seniors – 3K
Male
1st – Antonio Maluya
2nd – Reynaldo Dizon
3rd – Noe Almagro
Female
1st – Lani Lagdamen
2nd – Rachel Amuala
3rd – Evangeline Pitao
PWD – 3K
Male
1st – Abe Macario
2nd – Kevin Earl Pantaleon
3rd – Wendell Rabanuel
Female
1st – Athena Mae Bitacura
2nd – Femie Lacaser
3rd – Jellian Garrido