Article by:
Ben Cal
MANILA – It’s all systems go for “A Run for a Million Trees: An Earth Day Celebration” at Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday, with thousands of runners, environmental advocates and corporate partners to converge for one of the country’s largest Earth Day events.
Led by the Million Trees Foundation Inc. (MTFI) and QBE Foundation, the advocacy run aims to raise awareness and mobilize public support for watershed rehabilitation, urban greening and climate action all over the Philippines.
Organizers project participation to reach up to 4,000 runners, composed of families, corporate teams and youth groups.
“This is more than just a fun run for the environment but also a movement against climate change and a positive action for world peace amid the Middle East war,” MTFI president Melandrew Velasco said in a statement. “Every step taken on April 11 is a step toward restoring our forests, protecting our watersheds and securing a greener and peaceful future for generations to come.”
The event features 5K, 10K and 16K race categories, with the Quirino Grandstand serving as the main assembly and activity center.
“Running our talk to support Yorme’s (Manila Mayor Isko Moreno's) bamboo tree planting project, we will be turning over 1,000 bamboo saplings to be planted alongside Bayview Park Hotel strip (on Roxas Boulevard) earlier planted by Manila City,” Velasco said.
Government agencies are also backing the event, such as Metro Manila Development Authority and Philippine National Police, while the city government will provide traffic management and logistical support.
Beyond the race, a tree will be planted in every runner's honor. Medals and plaques were crafted from repurposed wood materials at MTFI’s community-based carpentry shop, transforming discarded industrial pallets into meaningful symbols of environmental advocacy while providing livelihood to local workers.
“As we celebrate Earth Day, we also run for noble and higher causes such as environmental protection, community empowerment and even global peace,” MTFI chair emeritus Gen. Reynaldo Velasco (ret.), who initiated the Annual Million Trees Challenge in 2017, said. (PNA)
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