Marikina benefit race lures 3,000 runners

THE “TAKBO para sa Marikina Watershed” lured more than 3,000 runners whose registration fees will help raise funds for the rehabilitation efforts of the reservoir.

Ruling yesterday’s run were Vincent Nicoyco (11:54) and Pamela Mae Marcelo (15:16) in the 3K category, Ika Jomao-As (19:27) and April Quiabao (26:23) in 5K and Michael Busitu (32:13) and Emily Nillyguin (48:23) dominated in 10K.

Honorato Ednilag Jr., 73, was declared the oldest runner while 8-year-old Jhonrey Romero was the youngest participant. All winners received P1,000 each.

“Thank you very much to all who ran, donated and participated in our advocacy,” said Marikina Mayor Del De Guzman. “With your support, rehabilitating our watershed is truly possible.”

The Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape (UMRBPL) spans 29 kilometers and covers five municipalities of Rizal—Rodriguez, Antipolo, Baras, San Mateo and Tanay.

The watershed acts as the first line of defense against flooding.

“We were able to plant some 70,000 trees in the past three years but we need 28 million trees planted for the watershed to be effective,” De Guzman said.