The sun rose on a bright and promising morning as participants gathered for the much-anticipated "Run Against Illegal Drugs, Smoking, and Vaping" fun run on August 21, 2023. 

This event, organized by a coalition of the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC), Municipal Health Office, New Lucena Municipal Police Station, and community advocates, aimed to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of illegal drugs, smoking, and vaping on individual health and the community as a whole.


Uniting for a Common Cause


Runners of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels converged at New Lucena Municipal Auditorium, sporting energetic smiles and a shared commitment to promoting a healthier lifestyle. The event emphasized the importance of saying no to harmful substances and embracing a life free from the clutches of addiction. 


The event theme is: “NEW LUCENA DAPAT BIDA AT BAGA AY ALAGA.”


Prior to the run, participants have Zumba as a warm-up led by the New Lucene Zumba Club. They dance with energetic beats along with New Lucenanhon's beloved Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville.  



A short program followed after the Zumba, where everyone was welcomed by Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville. PCPT Rogie I. Panela, the Acting Chief of Police of New Lucena MPS introduced the guest speaker. 

Hon. Mayor LiecelMondejar-Seville

PCPT Rogie I. Panela

PCOL Ronaldo P. Palomo

The guest speaker PCOL Ronaldo P. Palomo, Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO) Provincial Director delivered his message and commended the initiative of PMAJ Jose Nemias P. Pamplona, presently the Chief of Police of Barotac Nuevo MPS who started the RAID- S fun run when he was the New Lucena MPS Chief of Police.  


The signing of the Commitment also followed.


The Race Begins


As the starting signal echoed through the air, runners set off on their chosen routes, which included options for different distances (1K, 3K, and 5K) to accommodate everyone's preferences. Enthusiastic cheers and supportive chants reverberated along the route, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and unity.






Crossing the Finish Line


The sight of participants crossing the finish line was truly inspiring. Certificate of Participation and cash prizes awarded not just for speed, but for the spirit of participation and the shared commitment to advocating for a healthier community. The sense of achievement was palpable as runners, many of whom were participating in their first fun run, celebrated with friends and family.


A Strong Message for the Future


The "Run Against Illegal Drugs, Smoking, and Vaping" fun run wasn't just an event; it was a powerful statement about the importance of safeguarding our well-being and the well-being of those around us. By raising awareness about the risks associated with harmful substances, the event succeeded in fostering a culture of health and responsibility.


As participants departed, they carried with them the memory of a day filled with unity, and the promise of a brighter, healthier future—a future free from the grip of illegal drugs, smoking, and vaping.