The Philippine Chamber of Customs Brokers Inc. (PCCBI) recently hosted the highly successful “Run For the Ocean Fun Run.” In a remarkable display of unity and commitment to environmental advocacy. Held simultaneously across three major cities — Subic, Manila, and Cebu — the event attracted a diverse group of participants, including both customs brokers and non-customs brokers, all rallying behind the shared cause of ocean conservation.
November 17, 2024 – The “Run For the Ocean” Fun Run aimed not only to promote physical wellness and camaraderie among professionals but also to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect the Philippines’ marine ecosystems. This year’s event brought attention to the increasing challenges faced by the ocean environment, particularly the threats posed by pollution, climate change, and over-exploitation.
Subic Leg: A Community-Focused Event
The Subic leg of the fun run was led by Tj Mamerto, a respected leader in the community, who helped set the tone for a vibrant and family-friendly event. Local customs brokers, along with their families, joined forces to run in support of marine conservation. The Subic leg’s atmosphere was lively, as participants of all ages came together to enjoy the race, strengthening both professional and personal connections.
Mamerto expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming support from the community, noting that the event served as an important reminder of the role each individual plays in preserving the environment. “This run is a simple yet powerful way to unite people from all walks of life for a common cause — to protect our oceans and the future of our planet,” he said.
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Subic Leg: A Community-Focused Event
The Manila leg of the event, coordinated by a team of dedicated PCCBI leaders including Ms. Tess Santos, Reffy Gorre, Wilfredo Caingcoy, and Rod Villanueva, saw a diverse group of participants coming together in the heart of the capital. Customs brokers, business owners, government officials, and even non-customs professionals joined forces in the race, making it a dynamic celebration of community solidarity.
The Manila run was particularly notable for its inclusivity, as participants from various sectors of the customs industry, as well as students and environmental advocates, were present. Gorre, one of the event leaders, emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, noting, “This event is more than just a fun run; it is a statement of our commitment to future generations. We are not only customs brokers — we are citizens of the world with a responsibility to protect it.”
Cebu Leg: Local Leadership and Regional Engagement
In Cebu, the event was led by Cebu Chapter President Elizir Lao, along with National President Anthony Cristobal and other notable figures, including Past President Adonis Carmona and Former Trustee Julius Basas. Their leadership ensured that the Cebu leg was both well-organized and well-attended, with a strong turnout from local customs brokers, their families, and other supporters of the cause.
Cristobal, who played a pivotal role in coordinating the event, highlighted the importance of regional engagement in national advocacy efforts. “By hosting simultaneous events in key locations like Subic, Manila, and Cebu, we were able to demonstrate the national reach of our advocacy. Cebu has always been a strong pillar of the customs community, and it’s inspiring to see our members here rallying for the environment,” he said.
A Shared Goal: Raising Awareness for Conservation
The overarching theme of the “Run For the Ocean Fun Run” was to raise awareness about the need for active participation in marine conservation efforts. As an island nation with one of the world’s richest marine biodiversity, the Philippines is at the forefront of efforts to protect its oceans. The event served as a platform to inform the public about the urgent need to reduce plastic pollution, protect coral reefs, and preserve marine wildlife.
PCCBI’s advocacy for sustainability went beyond the fun run itself. The event was accompanied by a series of educational materials and discussions on how individuals and organizations can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to protecting the marine ecosystem.
Run for the Ocean: A Successful and Meaningful Event
The success of the “Run For the Ocean Fun Run” is a testament to PCCBI’s dedication to blending professional initiatives with meaningful, impactful activities that benefit society and the environment. The event fostered a sense of camaraderie among participants while reinforcing the idea that small steps, such as participating in fun runs and supporting environmental causes, can lead to significant collective change.
PCCBI’s leadership expressed deep gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and sponsors for their unwavering support in making the event a success. “We are proud of what we have achieved together,” said PCCBI National President Anthony Cristobal. “Our mission is not just about professional growth; it is about ensuring that our industry and our communities are doing their part to protect the environment. This is just the beginning of a much larger movement to make a real difference in ocean conservation.”
With a unified commitment to environmental advocacy and a shared vision of a healthier planet, PCCBI is poised to continue driving initiatives that will have a lasting impact on both the customs industry and the broader community.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Advocacy
In closing, PCCBI’s leadership reaffirmed their commitment to furthering their environmental initiatives. As part of their ongoing efforts, the organization plans to host more events and initiatives aimed at fostering awareness and action on pressing environmental issues. The Chamber’s involvement in the “Run For the Ocean” is just one of many steps in its long-term vision to champion sustainability, raise awareness, and drive positive change for the environment.
The “Run For the Ocean Fun Run” is expected to become an annual event, growing in scope and reach as PCCBI continues to encourage more individuals and organizations to step up for the environment.
