1,000 runners cross Panguil Bay Bridge in Lanao del Norte unity run

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — Nearly 1,000 runners crossed the country's longest sea bridge during the LaNorte Unity Run on July 5, turning the historic Panguil Bay Bridge into a symbol of peace, unity and healthy living.

Participants started the race at the Mindanao Civic Center in Tubod and ran across the 7.3-kilometer Panguil Bay Bridge to Tangub City. 

The event featured 3-kilometer, 10-kilometer and 15-kilometer categories.

Governor Mohammad Khalid Quibranza Dimaporo led the run, joined by Muslims and Christians, young professionals, soldiers from the 2nd Mechanized Infantry "Magbalantay" Brigade, police personnel, civil society groups, government employees, youth organizations and religious sectors from across Northern Mindanao.

Organizers said the event was designed to promote not only fitness but also solidarity among communities.

The Unity Run was one of the highlights of Lanao del Norte's 67th Charter Day celebration.

Second District Rep. Sittie Aminah Q. Dimaporo said the province continues to prioritize peace and public safety, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy activities across provincial boundaries.

First District Rep. Imelda "Angging" Quibranza-Dimaporo highlighted the province's long-standing investment in sports, noting that the Mindanao Civic Center was built to international standards and successfully hosted the 2003 Palarong Pambansa.

She also announced that the center's football field has been certified to FIFA standards, opening opportunities to host bigger football events in the future, including possible matches involving the Philippine men's national football team, the Azkals.

The provincial government also plans to build a dormitory for athletes and coaches to further strengthen sports development in Lanao del Norte.

Governor Dimaporo said the province continues to attract new businesses and investments as peace and development improve.

"We want Lanao del Norte to become one of Northern Mindanao's most progressive provinces, and we can achieve that by working together," he said. (Richel V. Umel, Correspondent)