COURTESY: CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)
On a sunny July 28th morning, the bustling streets of Cagayan de Oro City were filled with the vibrant energy of runners from all walks of life. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-10 hosted a fun run for a cause, aptly named "Dagan Kontra Iligal na Droga," as a part of their advocacy campaign against illegal drugs. The air was electric with anticipation and camaraderie as participants gathered at the starting and finish lines located at Kiosko Kagawasan, Plaza Divisoria.
It's heartening to see such a diverse group come together for a noble cause. From government personnel, law enforcement officers, and families with their children to enthusiastic running clubs and even some furry friends, the fun run was a melting pot of individuals united in their fight against the scourge of illegal drugs.
PDEA Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Benjamin Gaspi emphasized the importance of community involvement in government programs against illegal drugs. He pointed out that events like these not only raise awareness about the ill-effects of illegal drugs but also encourage the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Gaspi's words struck a chord with me. He mentioned, “Napakahalaga na lahat ng tao may involvement sa programa ng gobyerno laban sa iligal na droga. Dito, naipapahayag natin na lahat ng tao ay kailangang iwaksi ang kanser ng lipunan-ang ilegal na droga.” Indeed, it's crucial that every member of the community plays a role in eradicating this societal cancer.
Seeing more than 1,000 runners participate was a testament to the growing awareness and collective effort against illegal drugs. The sight of families running together was particularly moving. It signaled that the younger generation is already being educated about the dangers of illegal drugs and the importance of staying away from them.
The fun run was not just a campaign; it was an experience. Starting and finishing at the iconic Kiosko Kagawasan, participants were treated to a scenic route that took them through the beautiful Rio de Oro Boulevard. The picturesque surroundings made the run more enjoyable and memorable, serving as a reminder of the beauty of a drug-free life.
Adding to the festive atmosphere were the raffle draws and colorful Zumba sessions that followed the run. These activities brought an extra layer of excitement and community spirit to the event, making it more than just a campaign but a celebration of life and health.
Reymond Abanilla, founder of the Jaguars Running Club, shared his club's motivation for joining the Dagan Kontra Iligal na Droga. He emphasized the importance of promoting active wellness and supporting PDEA’s advocacy in the fight against illegal drugs. Most members of their club are young, and engaging them in running serves as a positive diversion from potentially harmful activities.
Abanilla's words resonate deeply: “Mostly sa among club puro mga batan-on. Tsada pud nga ma-engage sila sa running kaysa sa ilegal nga drugs o ilegal nga mga binuhatan. We want to inspire others to engage in any physical activity, focusing more on healthy living, healthy lifestyle.” His advocacy for youth engagement in sports and physical activities is a powerful message in the fight against illegal drugs.
As the day drew to a close, it was clear that the Dagan Kontra Iligal na Droga fun run had achieved more than just raising awareness. It fostered a sense of community and collective responsibility. The presence of law enforcement personnel and other government workers running alongside civilians sent a strong message of unity and shared purpose.
Events like these are crucial in building a drug-free society. They remind us that while the fight against illegal drugs is a challenging one, it is not one we face alone. Each step taken by the runners was a step towards a brighter, healthier future for Cagayan de Oro City and beyond.
In conclusion, the Dagan Kontra Iligal na Droga fun run was a profound reminder of the power of community action. It brought together individuals from various backgrounds, united by a common goal. By promoting healthy living and raising awareness about the dangers of illegal drugs, events like these pave the way for a safer and more vibrant community. Let’s continue to support such initiatives and take active steps in our own lives to contribute to this noble cause.
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