Cagayan de Oro City Hosts the Mindanao Leg of “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea” Advocacy Run

The strategic significance of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) has always been a critical issue for the Philippines, given the ongoing maritime dispute in the area. In light of this, the nationwide advocacy run, “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea,” has been organized to raise awareness and rally public support for the Philippines' stance on this matter. On September 8, 2024, Cagayan de Oro City will proudly host the Mindanao leg of this run, uniting citizens in a symbolic act of solidarity and patriotism.

The Purpose Behind “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea”

At its core, the “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea” is more than just a fun run; it is a nationwide movement aiming to educate and inspire Filipinos to support the nation’s ongoing efforts to protect its sovereignty and maritime rights. Spearheaded by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and other national agencies, this event seeks to inform the public about the importance of the WPS and the various challenges the country faces in this ongoing maritime dispute.

Coast Guard’s Commitment to the Advocacy

Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela, who also serves as the spokesperson for the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS), emphasized the significance of this advocacy run. According to him, the run is designed to not only promote awareness but also to generate support for the development of educational materials aimed at informing the public about the issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea. These materials include comic books that discuss key topics such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Arbitral Award, and the Philippine government’s initiatives to defend its position.

Why Cagayan de Oro City?

Cagayan de Oro City, being a hub for community engagement and advocacy in Northern Mindanao, is a fitting location for the final leg of this nationwide run. Known for its active civil society and strong sense of community, the city is well-positioned to bring together participants from various sectors, including students, professionals, and civic organizations.

Hosting the Mindanao leg in Cagayan de Oro underscores the city’s importance in national initiatives and showcases its residents’ willingness to engage in causes that affect the entire country. It also aligns with the city’s history of supporting both local and national issues that promote unity and patriotism.

What to Expect on September 8, 2024

The Mindanao leg of “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea” promises to be a major event, featuring multiple race categories catering to different fitness levels. Participants can choose from 3K, 5K, and 10K distances. Each runner will receive a race kit that includes a commemorative shirt, race bib, and finisher’s medal. Beyond the race, the event will also feature information booths and educational exhibits that provide deeper insights into the West Philippine Sea issue.

The Bigger Picture: Strengthening National Support

The advocacy run is part of a broader effort by the government to unify the nation in supporting the Philippines’ maritime rights. President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has made it clear that disseminating accurate and timely information is a priority. By keeping the public and international community well-informed, the administration aims to secure both domestic and international backing for the country’s position.

“The most important aspect is securing support from the international community. They can’t support us if they’re unaware of what’s happening in the West Philippine Sea. With the right information, we’re now seeing an influx of support,” Commodore Tarriela explained.

The Role of Diplomacy Amid Tensions

Despite the ongoing provocations and challenges from China, the Philippine government remains committed to resolving the WPS dispute through peaceful and diplomatic channels. The Department of National Defense (DND) continues to work closely with international allies to ensure that all actions taken are in line with international law and a rules-based order. This approach aligns with the Marcos administration’s focus on balancing assertive diplomacy with strategic engagement.

Economic Resilience Amid Geopolitical Challenges

The maritime issue isn’t just about territorial rights; it has significant implications for the Philippines’ economy. President Marcos has been proactive in enhancing the country’s economic resilience by strengthening ties with foreign leaders and attracting foreign investments. These efforts aim to mitigate any potential economic fallout resulting from China’s coercive tactics, which have impacted trade, fisheries, and other key sectors.

The Role of Filipinos in Supporting the Cause

The success of the “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea” event is heavily reliant on public participation. Beyond just joining the run, Filipinos are encouraged to learn more about the issues at stake and spread awareness within their communities. The Philippine Coast Guard and other agencies have reiterated the need for every Filipino to unite in supporting the government’s initiatives. Whether through social media advocacy, community discussions, or participation in events like this, everyone has a role to play.

Registration Details and How to Get Involved

For those interested in participating in the Cagayan de Oro leg of “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea,” registration is now open at this link. The registration process is straightforward, with various payment options available for the convenience of participants. Early registrants will also enjoy discounts and perks, making it an opportunity to not only support a significant cause but also engage in a meaningful activity.

Running for a Cause

The “Takbo Para sa West Philippine Sea” advocacy run in Cagayan de Oro City is a clear demonstration of how collective action can amplify a nation’s voice on critical issues. It’s not just a run—it’s a statement of unity, patriotism, and the determination to protect what rightfully belongs to the Philippines. As the event draws near, the call to action is loud and clear: Stand with the Philippines, defend the West Philippine Sea, and let your footsteps echo the strength of our resolve.