07/08/2026
๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฒ || ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐โ ๐๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฐ๐ถ๐น ๐ฆ๐ฌ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฑ-๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ป๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ฐ๐ผ ๐ฅ๐๐ป ๐ฎ.๐ฌ
Before the sun had fully risen, the walkways of St. Theresa's College of Cebu were already filled with the sound of footsteps, laughter, and words of encouragement. Students, parents, alumni, faculty members, and guests gathered not just to cross the finish line. But to become part of a cause that brought the Theresian community together. The second Theresian Eco Run held on August 1, 2026, transformed an ordinary morning into one filled with energy, purpose, and school spirit.
The event, organized by the STC of Cebu Parents' Council AY 2025-2026 as one of their legacy projects, marked another successful take of commitment in promoting health, environmental stewardship, and community engagement after its first Eco Run last March 15, 2026, at Cebu Business Park.
The second Theresian Eco Run officially began with a kick-off program and warm-up session before participants headed to the starting line. As the race started, runners from different categories made their way through the course, cheered on by volunteers and supporters stationed along the route. Whether aiming for a podium finish or simply completing the race, every participant shared the same road and passion of determination.
Among the runners who stood out during the Eco Run was Kasandra Cortes whose strong finish earned admiration from fellow participants. Reflecting on the race, she described the experience as both exciting and rewarding, sharing that she looked forward not only to the race but also to spending time with her friends afterward.
"The Eco Run was exciting, and I was looking forward to hanging out with my friends after the race. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as if you're working for the Lord," Cortes said.
One of the Parentsโ Council members shared that their Eco Run initiative encourages people of all ages to stay active while supporting environmental efforts. They added that the Parentsโ Council, together with teachers, helped promote the event through posters, social media, and student announcements, reflecting on the experience. Following their first successful Eco Run last March 15, 2026, held in Cebu Business Park, they can say that it is truly an inspiring event, showing how a community can come together for a meaningful cause, proving that small actions can make a lasting impact.
After the final runners crossed the finish line, participants gathered for the culminating program, where winners were recognized and raffle prizes were awarded. Smiles, exhausted laughs, and warm hugs filled the venue as friends and families celebrated one another's achievements, long after the medals had been handed out, conversations about personal victories and unforgettable moments continued throughout the crowd.
Podium finishers were recognized in the following categories. For 5K Male: Juan Miguel Aguilar, first; Jhonele Tibay, second; and Joaquin Abayon, third. For 5K Female: Kelly Villanueva, first; Janevi Jusay, second; Saffi Son, third. For 3K Male: Shannon Malinao, first; Jacob Restauro, second; and Justin Pua, third. For 3K Female: Cassandra Portes, first; Rai Po, second; Mich Kho, third. For 1K Male: Zachary Antigua, first; Kenzo Ompad, second; and no winner for third place. For 1K Female: Mary Bacalla, second; no winners for first and third place.
As the venue slowly emptied and the morning came to a close, participants left carrying more than medals and victories. The footprints they left behind became a reminder that even the smallest steps when taken together can create something meaningful for both the community and the environment.
Article by Mckenzie Cortez and Mr. Lance Dante
Layout by Ana Ferrer
