News

The North Central Cebu District Association of Churches (NCCDAC) successfully hosted its "Fun Run for a Cause" on June 27, 2025, in Compostela, Cebu.

The event, themed "Every Step Builds," drew enthusiastic participation and successfully raised funds for its designated charitable cause: improving the muddy, uphill access road to the church in Lupa, Compostela.

Runners of all ages and fitness levels gathered at the Compostela Seventh-day Adventist Church in Compostela, Cebu, the starting point for the 3K, 5K, and 10K run categories. Despite the early morning call time, the atmosphere was vibrant and filled with excitement as 178 participants geared up for their respective distances.

The routes, which took runners through scenic parts of Compostela, provided a refreshing backdrop for the event. The 3K runners turned around at Bali-Bali, Cogon; the 5K participants at Upper Bali-Bali; and the 10K long-distance enthusiasts reached Purok 3 in Barangay Cabadiangan before making their way back.

"We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support of this run. God has blessed us with several sponsors, and their contributions covered all the preparation costs," Joven Arcelo, the creative, advertising, and marketing officer, said.

He enumerated the customized race kits given to each participant, which he believed justified the registration fees and brought joy to everyone involved. The kits included a shirt, a medal, a cap, products from Miller Health Foods, loot bags, snacks, bottled water, and breakfast.

Additionally, all participants who crossed the finish line received a specially designed medal and finisher shirts, serving as a tangible reminder of their contribution to the charitable initiative.

"Every step taken today truly builds towards a greater purpose, and we are happy that the funds raised will make an impact on our chosen cause," Arcelo added.

Pastor Ciriaco Valencia, NCCDAC district pastor, also elaborated on how the funds raised will benefit the company members of Lupa.

"The church location in Lupa has problems with the muddy, uphill access road, which creates discomfort and poses hazards for churchgoers, especially on rainy days," Valencia shared. "This event is indeed a huge help for the project."

Ariel Albor, the event chairman and vice president of social affairs at NCCDAC, expressed his initial concerns when the project was first proposed. "The attendees did not fully embrace this event right away. However, registrations surged two weeks before the date, even exceeding the cutoff for registration."

He also shared how his efforts and sleepless nights, alongside his team, paid off, upon seeing the number of organizations willing to support and the requests to reopen registration after the deadline.

"As the final, 35 registered for the 3K run; 43 for the 5K; and 100 for the 10K," Albor added.

In an interview, Romy Atun, the top runner for the 10K distance, shared his thoughts on the event. "Being the top runner was an incredible feeling. I felt a mix of excitement, pride, and relief. All the training and effort I put in paid off, and crossing that finish line first gave me a strong sense of accomplishment."

Atun emphasized that it wasn't just about winning; it was about proving to himself that he could achieve it. The cheers from the crowd and witnessing others pushing themselves made the experience even more unforgettable.

"I didn't finish it alone, I finished it with God by my side," he added.

For the organizers, the "Fun Run for a Cause" proved to be a success, not only in terms of fundraising but also in promoting a healthy lifestyle in the community for a noble objective. The invitation to join was not limited to Adventists alone, but was open to anyone interested.

Mayor Felijur "Jury" Quiño, the mayor of Compostela, and his councilors recognized the significance of the event and supported it by granting an acknowledgment permit.

Following the success of the first district-wide fun run activity, a second event is now being considered.

Awardees are listed below:

10K Race Results

• 1st Place: Romy Azney Felix Atun – Consolacion SDA Church
• 2nd Place: Jobee Ryn Ford Cuyos – Lilo-an Central SDA Church
• 3rd Place: Kim John Levi Atun – Lilo-an Central SDA Church

5K Race Results

• 1st Place: Janron Martinez – Compostela SDA Church
• 2nd Place: John Paul Estobis – Lilo-an SDA Church
• 3rd Place: Jay Martinez – Compostela SDA Church

3K Race Results

• 1st Place: Gerald Reil Anthony Judy – Lilo-an Central SDA Church
• 2nd Place: Pedro Tundag – Cambayog SDA Church
• 3rd Place: Emmanuel Limbago – Cabangahan SDA Church