Olongapo City was swamped in a sea of red last February 10,
2013 when about 10,000 runners from all walks of life participated in the 2nd
Million Volunteer Run organized nationwide by the Philippine Red Cross.
Red Cross Olongapo Chapter president Mayor James “Bong”
Gordon Jr., together with First Lady Anne Gordon, led the kick-off program at
Marikit Park where the run started.
The run ended at Ayala Harbor Point where Mayor Gordon gave
out certificates of participation to the first 100 participants who made it to
the finish line.
“Once again, Olongapo lived up to its reputation as the city
of volunteers,” said Mayor Gordon.
Addressing the huge crowd of runners, he added, “We hope that you will
also support the Red Cross blood drives and volunteer to our 143 program.”
Red Cross 143 is a
program designed to engage Filipinos into volunteerism as the country is one of
the most disaster-prone nations in the world.
Under the program, the agency recruits at least 44 volunteers
in every community, comprised of one team leader and 43 members.
They undergo rigid hands-on training to be able to respond to
and lead on-ground efforts during emergencies and other challenging situations
Meanwhile, PRC chairman Dick Gordon expressed his happiness
and gratitude for the overwhelming support that the public has given the MVR
all over the country. Some 700,000 runners participated in MVR 2, surpassing
the success of MVR 1 which drew 400,000
volunteers.
The MVR was held in key cities in the country and served as
an avenue to raise funds for PRC youth and volunteer trainings on disaster
management and equipping every community with life-saving skills.
Pao/sara jane delos santos
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