CEBU, PHILIPPINES — The inaugural Governor’s Zero Hunger Run raised P2.9 million for food security and nutrition programs while drawing some 3,500 participants, setting what Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro described as the country’s first footrace dedicated to ending hunger.
Held as part of Cebu Province’s 457th Founding Anniversary celebration, the event was organized by the Cebu Provincial Sports Commission and combined sports, culture and advocacy in support of the province’s Zero Hunger campaign.
Baricuatro joined Capitol officials and employees in the 1-kilometer fun run and credited the event’s success to the collective effort of participants and partners.
“This was our first Governor’s Zero Hunger Run, and its success belongs to all of you. Daghang salamat, Cebu,” she said.
“If we want to eliminate hunger, we must involve everyone. This event showed what we can accomplish when government, communities, and the private sector work together with compassion and a shared purpose,” she added.
The event was spearheaded by the Cebu Provincial Sports Commission, chaired by Dr. Rhoel Dejano, with May Salimbangon serving as event director.
Beyond the race, the event showcased Cebuano culture through a “Feast of Cebu,” where 12 local government units—Samboan, Santander, Alcantara, Alegria, Tuburan, Carmen, Carcar City, Balamban, Borbon, Dalaguete, Argao and Toledo City—set up booths featuring local delicacies and homegrown products.
The festive atmosphere underscored the advocacy’s message that food is not only sustenance but also a symbol of community and shared responsibility.
Baricuatro said proceeds from the run will fund programs aimed at improving food security and nutrition across the province, in line with her administration’s Zero Hunger initiative.
Quoting Mother Teresa’s words, “If we cannot feed 100, at least feed one,” the governor reminded participants that every registration and every kilometer completed contributed to a greater cause.
“This wasn’t just a race for medals or personal records. This was a race for a purpose,” she said, expressing hope that the Governor’s Zero Hunger Run would eventually grow into an international event centered on compassion.
The governor also thanked the Cebu Provincial Sports Commission, members of the Provincial Board, Capitol department heads, participating local government units, volunteers, the Cebu City Transportation Office, the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, sponsors and partners for helping ensure the event’s success.
“Thank you to every runner who showed up and ran with us. You are already champions,” she said.
Dejano said participants praised both the organization and the advocacy behind the event, adding that organizers are already planning to expand next year’s edition.
“We already talked with Gov that we’re going international. Hopefully we can have runners not only from Asia but all over the world,” he said.
Baricuatro ended the event by urging Cebuanos to sustain the campaign against hunger.
“Padayon sa pagdagan, padayon sa pagtinabangay, padayon sa atong paningkamot nga mahuman ang kagutom diri sa Sugbo,” Baricuatro said.
She expressed hope that the Governor’s Zero Hunger Run would evolve into more than an annual sporting event, becoming a lasting tradition that promotes compassion and inspires Cebuanos to work together toward a healthier province where no one is left behind and no one goes hungry.
Written by Caecent No-ot Magsumbol/FPL
