On August 18, 2024, the ZPM Health Department organized a fun run with the theme “Heal Thy Lifestyle,” which brought together hundreds of people from all over the Zamboanga Peninsula to celebrate spiritual development, community building, and good health. The event was held in Tiayon, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, and proved to be an exciting event full of inclusive competition, picturesque routes, thrilling raffles, and heartwarming testimonies.
Event’s Objectives
The Organizers emphasized that the Fun Run was not just a mere sporting event, but an avenue to inspire sustainable lifestyle changes. “Our goal is to create a lasting impact by encouraging people to adopt healthier habits and daily exercise,” said Pr. Marvin Cedron the ZPM Health Director, and the event coordinator. “By holding this Fun Run every year, we hope to contribute to the overall well-being of our participants.”
Categories and Routes
Five categories were established for the fun run to ensure participation and inclusivity. There was a subcategory for men and women in each category; ZPM Office Staff and Pastors, 13-19 years old, 20-39 years old, 40-59 years old, and senior’s category.
The event’s dual-route design caters to the participant’s diverse fitness levels and interests. The 6KM route was found manageable for females, whereas the 10KM route for male runners was a more severe endurance test. Both courses were intended to be picturesque and captivating, highlighting Tiayon’s natural beauty while ensuring thrill, fun and safe run for all participants.
Prizes and Medals
In each category, six outstanding performers—three female and three male winners—were recognized with Champion, First Place, and Second Place awards. Along with recognizing the best performances, the Fun Run organizers made sure each racer felt important. A finisher’s medal was given to each competitor as a token of their dedication and endurance during the race.
Exciting Raffles Add to the Fun
A highlight of this year’s Fun Run was the array of raffles that added an extra layer of excitement to the event. Through a series of lucky draws, all participants had the opportunity to win a range of prizes. The occasion was made more exciting and joyful by the raffle prizes, which included water tumblers, camping chairs, mosquito nets, tents, and a brand-new bicycle valued at 14,000 PHP as the grand prize.
Healing Stories/ Impact of Fun Run
One of the enthusiastic participants, Sister Ermelyn Balawing, stated, “I am inspired to exercise even just 3 minutes a day, 3 times a day, because of this fun run, to keep my body healthy.”
Couple participants, Mr. Rizen Pamunag and Mrs. Cherryl Pamunag, shared personal tales that highlight the significant impact the fun run had on their lives. Mr. Rizen Pamunag commented, “This is the second time I’ve participated in the fun run here at ZPM, and it has been incredibly helpful for me personally. I had a heart attack in 2016, but thanks to God, He has given me a way to revive my heart through these runs.”
His wife added, “For me, participating in the fun run has provided multiple benefits. First, it has greatly contributed to my overall health. While my husband has recovered his heart health, I have seen improvements in my migraine and dysmenorrhea. There’s no need for medication—just running has become my remedy. Secondly, it has brought us closer together as a couple, strengthening our bond.”
Future Outlook
The success of this year’s Fun Run has increased the bar for future events. The ZPM Health Department plans to continue hosting these welcoming and inspiring events, promoting spiritual and holistic health in the community.
For more photos, check out our album.
Hope Channel
Zamboanga Peninsula Mission
