MAMBAJAO, Camiguin (PIA) -- The local government of Mambajao spearheaded the Camiguin 360 Ultra Marathon on March 23, highlighting athleticism and promoting tourism among 469 runners.

The Provincial Government of Camiguin, all municipalities of the province, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the province and town's disaster risk reduction and management councils, barangay local government units, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) and all of the towns' health offices, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Philippine Army (PA) aided in the conduct of the annual marathon event. 

Highlighting last year's innovations, LGU Mambajao introduced groundbreaking measures to enhance the event experience. "We deployed a mobile command and control vehicle with triage technology and race timing chips for the runners," said Gilbert Grado, Mambajao LGU Sports coordinator.

The DOST, through the Local Government of Mambajao under the leadership of Mayor Yñigo Jesus Romualdo, has deployed the Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) at Tongatok Cliff, Naasag, Mambajao, Camiguin. This initiative serves as a vital hydration station for the ultramarathon participants.

Mambajao used MoCCoV in monitoring the runners' physical condition, tracking progress, and assessing capacity and endurance as the runners approached the municipality of Mambajao, approximately 10 kilometers away from the finish line.

Grado said the Camiguin 360 Ultra Marathon follows a clockwise route, offering participants a scenic journey across the picturesque landscapes of the island province. Notably, there was no registration fee, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all aspiring runners, further reinforcing the event's ethos of community engagement.

Bryan Quiamco emerged as the male champion, closely followed by Marlon Pabillaran and Ramil Neri. In the female category, Michell Ann Aclo clinched the top spot, with Noime Fernandez and Nanette Purple Rain securing the subsequent positions.

The champion received P25,000, the first runner-up P20,000, and the second runner-up P15,000. Additionally, the age-group winners received cash prizes of P5,000 for the champion, P3,000 for the first runner-up, and P2,000 for the second runner-up.

"Grabe ka lingaw. Ang mga spectators sa Camiguin people grabe ka supportive. Mura na sad mi'g nanaad 2024," Errol John Patron, one of the participants, said, emphasizing the warmth and encouragement extended by the local community.

(It was very fun. The spectators in Camiguin were very supportive. It seemed like we also joined the pilgrimage.)

He commended the organizers for their meticulous planning and the provision of essential services, including medical assistance, marshals, and the unwavering presence of uniformed personnel, ensuring safety throughout the event.

Also extending his gratitude to the organizers for the opportunity to be part of the event, Larrymar Dorde said, "Thank you, Lord, for granting me the strength and courage to complete the challenge of the Camiguin 360-64km Ultramarathon. I never thought na makakabalik ako sa pagtakbo sa 64 km ultramarathons since 'yung last ko was in 2015 pa [I never thought that I would be able to return to running in 64-kilometer ultramarathons since my last one was in 2015]. To our running tour guide, Chrysler Mangubat, thank you for the free tour around Camiguin while running."

The local government of Mambajao holds the Camiguin 360 Ultra Marathon annually to promote wellness, good health, sportsmanship, and tourism. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)