Some 1,500 running enthusiasts, tourism advocates, members of the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies – Philippines, Inc. (NAITAS), and officials and employees of the Department of Tourism (DOT) gathered at the Quirino Grandstand recently for the “Takbo Para sa Turismo” advocacy run for Philippine Tourism — a vibrant celebration of unity, culture, and national pride.
“What a powerful sight — nearly 1,500 runners united for tourism with one heartbeat for our country and our culture. Thank you, NAITAS, for partnering with the Department of Tourism for this most meaningful cause that supports the tourism industry of our beloved country,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who finished the three-kilometer run.
“What a powerful sight — nearly 1,500 runners united for tourism with one heartbeat for our country and our culture.”
“The Department of Tourism is proud to run with all of you, because building a stronger tourism industry is a race that all of us can win together. To everyone here, you are not just finishers, for you are all champions of Philippine tourism. And so, let’s all keep running forward — for our culture, for our communities, and for our country,” Frasco added.
As a show of support for the cause, the tourism chief awarded a total of P100,000 to the top male and female finishers of the 10K, 5K, and 3K races, on top of the race prizes.
“Today’s event is more than just a fun run. It’s a movement.”
“Today’s event is more than just a fun run. It’s a movement, a movement that says tourism is alive, tourism is local, and tourism is all of us. It’s a powerful reminder that when all of us come together: the private sector, government, and community, we can run farther, reach higher, and grow stronger,” NAITAS President Florence Rivera stressed.
Rivera likewise thanked the runners, volunteers, sponsors, race marshals, and medical teams for their contributions, and expressed her gratitude to Frasco, saying, “Thank you, Secretary, for leading the way in the recovery and resurgence of our tourism sector. Your energy and dedication inspire us all.”
NAITAS Immediate Past President Raquel Sabucido, DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Assistant Secretaries Judilyn Quiachon and Ronald Conopio, Directors Alven Talisic and Glenn Albert Ocampo, and Head Executive Assistant Frances Jan Villarino, alongside hundreds of tourism stakeholders and enthusiasts, also joined the race.
Top three male and female finishers were recognized across all race categories — 3K, 5K, and 10K.
Special prizes and raffle draws featuring tour and vacation packages to top Philippine destinations were likewise awarded to the participating runners.
