• CHERYL G. CRUZ
A marathon will be held in Bacolod City every February, as one way to promote a healthy and physically-active lifestyle, boost tourism, and local business.
This was after the Sangguniang Panlungsod approved on third and final reading the Bacolod Run ordinance, authored by Councilor Em Ang, with P1 million as appropriation.
“The Bacolod City government sees the great benefits of organizing an annual marathon. Cities that host annual marathon events enjoy a boost in the local economy, particularly hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, due to the influx of visitors, who either spectate or participate in such events,” the ordinance, co-authored by councilors Kalaw Puentevella and Jason Villarosa, stressed.
There is need to promote the health and welfare of residents, and increase awareness on the importance of a healthy lifestyle, the proponents said as they also noted a growing community of runners in the city.
A Bacolod City Run Council, chaired by the mayor, shall be created to plan, organize, and implement the run; set the date, route, and schedule; determine the categories and prizes for the run; secure necessary permits and licenses; promote the run; and manage the finances and sponsorships, among others.
The council shall also appoint a run director to manage the event. | CGC
