By JADEN ALBERTO
Intern

Around 4,000 Filipinos answered the call at the Quirino Grandstand just before dawn of Sunday, Jan. 26, to participate in the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Fun Run 2025 hosted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). 

The event offered distances of 3 kilometers, 5km, and 10km, with the race aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and the proceeds of the registration fees supporting PRC's humanitarian efforts.

MMDA chairman Atty. Romando Artes described the charity race as “an avenue for the public to gather and show support to initiatives that enhance government accountability and transparency as well as participation and solidarity in pushing for social reforms.”

The race also served as a prelude to the PH-OGP Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting which will happen in Manila for the first time from Feb. 5 to 7.

This meeting will gather more than 200 international and over 300 local government officials and civil society leaders from around the world to exchange ideas on open government initiatives and address key issues. 

Running activities formally kicked off at 5 a.m. with the 10 km runners making their way around the course, later followed by the 5 km and 3 km runners. Before each gun start, participants warmed up by collectively grooving to the beat of Zumba music. 

After the races, the event program included a message from members of the University of the Philippines men’s basketball team, the announcement of podium finishers, and the distribution of raffle prizes.