Running is widely considered a sport that champions inclusivity because anyone, regardless of age, bakground, or ability, can participate. Inclusion means everyone feels welcome. Why inclusivity in sports is important? Creating inclusive sports is 'the right thing to do' because, ultimately, it will nurture a society where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can enjoy the social and health benefits of sports.
What are the key aspects of running's inclusivity? First, there is Accessibility - with minimal equipment needed (essentially just running shoes), any person can start running anywhere, anytime. Second, there is Health - with running recognized for offering significant physical and mental health, which are accessible to everyone. Third, there is Sense of Belonging - with running events and running clubs creating a shared experience and sense of unity, where diverse people come together with a sense of purpose. Fourth, there is Breaking Down of Barriers - with running helping break down social barriers related to location, physical ability, and social identity, thereby promoting a more connected society.
It is in this spirit of inclusivity that many passionate runners, including the Bicolano Penguin (BP), are enthusiastically supporting the 4th PWDe Run scheduled for November 30, 2025 in the UP Diliman Academic Oval.
The lead organizer of the PWDe Run is the Boundless Possibilities Foundation, Inc. (BPFI) which has conducted this fun run in 2019, 2023, 2024, and now this 2025. The BPFI is a non-profit organization that supports adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities, often referred to as "Gentle Giants", by provideng transitional services and community activities. Its mission is to foster independence and productivity through programs that include skills training, arts, music, and a supportive community environment. The foundation collaborated with other organizations to establish a training center located in Quezon City.
For the 4th PWDe Run, BPFI has partnered with a number of organizations and institutions to make it happen. The proceeds of the Nov 30 fun run are earmarked not only for the sports program of BFP but also for other PWD organizations in Quezon City. The lead person of BPFI is Jo Palomares and race organizer is Abet Ocampo. When inquired as to why she has been volunteering to be the race director of the PWDe Run for a number years already, here is the reply of Abet:
"Jo and I have along history of advocating disability-inclusive sport. Hence, I've always been a part of PWDe Run --- in 2019 and 2023, as it's program host and then as Race Organizer in 2024. This year is coming full-circle of sorts as I admitted having serious visions of where PWDe Run should be... as the first and only one of its kind in this part of Manila and the entire country. It would be an honor to see the PWDe Run grow to be a premier running event in the years to come. This, of course will translate to better acceptance of our PWDs as concrete contributors to the development of the country."
The partners include the Gentle Giants, Vitalstrats Creative Solutions (VCS ), Epsilon Chi fraternity of the UP College of Engineering, and UP Dreamers. The Race Director is Mags Quibilan of UP Dreamers and according to her, over 50 members from their running club have volunteered for the 4th PWDe Run.
Together, BPFI and the partners have been working together for the past few months to make the 4th PWDe Run a success. With their collaborative efforts, a number of sponsors have signed up and this list is continuing to grow as we approach the fun run day (Nov 30). Not bad for an organizing team composed of volunteers, unlike some of the well-oiled and for-profit running events entities out there.
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| November group photo of organizing team. Race Director Mags Quibilan of UP Dreamers is 2nd to the left (front row). |
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| October Group photo of organizing team led by BPFI's Jo Palomares (4th fron left) and Race Director Abet Ocampo (2nd from right). |
The Gentle Giants have been busy as well preparing for the 4th PWDe run. They have been training almost weekly for the fun run. They have run training sessions on Saturdays conducted by volunteer coaches. Many of them have volunteered for packing the race kits/bibs while some of the Gentle Giants are helping out with their artistic talents.
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| Gentle Giants training in UP Diliman for the 4th PWDe Run. |
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| Gentle Giants helping out with other race volunteers the ongoing race kit production |
There are many things that make the PWDe Run pretty special. And one of the special things is the 4th PWDe Run finisher medal. It is not your typical finisher medal. Firstly, it is not imported unlike the finisher medals of the more expensive local fun runs and marathons which come mostly from China. Talk about a high local content for the 4th PWDe Run. Secondly, it is mostly made from recycled materials. Talk about sustainability and circular economy being practiced by the 4th PWDe Run. Thirdly, the finisher medal is designed and crafted by some of the neurodivergent individuals supported by BPFI. Talk about celebrating the talent of the Gentle Giants.
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| A couple of UP Dreamers showing the 4th PWDe Run finisher medals, locally produced from recycled materials. Obra de amor. |
Time to celebrate the talent of all Filipinos. Time to celebrate the spirit of inclusivity in Running. Join us at the 4th PWDe Run. Online registration continues.
As they say, "No one should be left behind."
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