In an effort to help the preservation and rehabilitation of Mount Apo, Ecoteneo conducted the Envirunment 2017 last October 21, 2017.

The event started in AdDU Matina campus and ended in the Jacinto gate of the Roxas campus. The race, which had the three kilometers and five kilometers categories, also featured runners from ages three to 70 years old. Bikers were also included in the race in order to promote bike culture and sustainable transportation.

Fr. Joel Tabora, SJ also took part in the running. He joined the joggers in the three kilometer event. In an interview, he said that he was delighted with the results of the events and what it represented.

“It was fun and it was organized but I think the purpose was the run for Mt. Apo and the environment. I think everything that we can do to commit ourselves in the environment is better,” he shared.

Elmer Bartolo took home the top spot for 5 km division, finishing the race in 19 minutes and 50 seconds. Brandon Lozada (26:19) and Jose Enrique Mempin (26:22) went second and third respectively.

For the 3 km category, Jorge Esquirida went first with a time of 13 minutes and 2 seconds. Russell Cayunda (15:14) and Dennis Dino (20:59) bagged the second and third place.

Three year old Kezaiah Grace Eguia was also honored as the youngest participant in the race.

Winners were given a free climbing trip to Mt. Apo.

FitFil Challenge

After the race, Coach Jim and Toni Saret graced the stage to promote the FitFil National Weight Loss Challenge is a nationwide movement that aims to combat obesity and encourage exercising. The challenge has a target of shedding 1,000,000 lbs. in the country by the end of the year.

Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte has already pledged to lose 10 pounds. Not to be outdone, Tabora himself promised to lose 20 pounds by the end of the challenge. In addition, the Davao City Hall and AdDU are set to donate 12,000 pounds each to the cause.

The program will run for six months, from June to December 2017.