
MANILA, Philippines — A total of 745 people took part in a fundraising fun run on June 28 for the medical and welfare needs of the persons deprived of liberty at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City
According to a recent statement from the Kababaihan Partylist, which is one of the sponsors, the participants in the “Run for a Cause: Hakbang ng Bayanihan, Kalusugan sa Piitan” came from government agencies, uniformed services, private organizations, running communities, and the general public.
The event was also supported by the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), led by Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr.; the CIW under Corrections Senior Supt. Daisy Sevilla-Castillote; and the Greenfield District.
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Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez, a supporter of Kababaihan Partylist, said the activity underscored the importance of ensuring that women deprived of liberty continue to receive adequate medical care.
“Women deprived of liberty are often overlooked, yet they remain entitled to dignity, compassion, and access to medical care. Through this run, we are sending a simple message: they have not been forgotten, and their welfare matters,” Gutierrez said.
According to her, the initiative reflects Kababaihan Partylist’s commitment to advancing women’s welfare and access to essential services.
“What makes this initiative special is that everyone benefits. Participants are encouraged to take care of their own health through physical activity while helping provide medical support to women at CIW. It’s a simple but meaningful way to turn every kilometer into an act of compassion,” she added.
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For her part, Castillote, CIW superintendent, thanked the participants, sponsors, volunteers, and partner organizations for helping make the fundraising initiative a success.
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“We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined and supported this meaningful initiative. Beyond raising funds, this event strengthens our commitment to promoting health and wellness and advancing programs that improve the lives of the women PDLs entrusted to our care. Every participant became part of that mission,” Castillote said.
According to organizers, proceeds from the charity run will help fund the medical, laboratory, hospitalization, and other welfare-related needs of women PDLs, while supporting future health and wellness programs at the institution.
Partnerships
The charity run, which was hosted by television personality Karen Bordador, also strengthened partnerships among government agencies, private organizations, sponsors, volunteers, and community stakeholders while raising awareness of the healthcare needs of women PDLs.
The event brought together personnel from the BuCor national jeadquarters, New Bilibid Prison, Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Philippine Army (PA), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG.
It highlighted strong inter-agency support for the CIW”s health and welfare programs.
Also in attendance was vlogger, social media personality, and professional make-up artist Hajie Alejandro, who joined the fundraising effort.
Community gathering
Families turned the event into a community gathering, with many participants bringing their children and even their pets.
One runner completed the race on crutches, drawing admiration from fellow participants and embodying the spirit of perseverance that defined the event.
The morning opened with a Zumba warm-up before participants took on the 3-kilometer and 5-kilometer race categories.
After crossing the finish line, runners were treated to refreshments before the awarding ceremony, providing an opportunity for participants from different sectors to interact and celebrate a shared cause.
Kababaihan Partylist said it would remain committed to supporting programs that uplift and empower Filipino women, including those in vulnerable circumstances.
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The partylist added that it would continue to partner with government agencies and community organizations in initiatives that promote health, justice, and opportunities for women — both inside and outside correctional facilities. /atm
View original source — Philippine Daily Inquirer ↗


