PASAY CITY, Philippines – His bid to help sustain a massive free college education project by a non-profit foundation in the Philippines is gaining momentum. Daniel Razon’s cause was greeted by an unprecedented number of people who joined him in the history-making half-marathon benefit event dubbed as “Kahit Isang Araw Lang Takbo Para sa Libreng Kolehiyo”.

The January 31 event at the SM Mall of Asia grounds, the third largest mall in the world, gathers more than 50,500 runners, the highest so far ever recorded in the half-marathon history of the Philippines. Through the funds raised with this event, however, there are high hopes the Kamanggagawa Foundation’s second La Verdad Christian College (LVCC) building in Metro Manila will be opened soon.

At the ceremonial run, the last activity to cap the successful activity, Mr. Razon raised his hands and gestured the Isang Araw Lang symbol then shouted: ‘No to drugs! Yes to God!’ He was joined by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) director General Dionisio Santiago, some members of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), and various Rotary Club chapters.

The religious group, Members Church of God International popularly known as Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) reportedly comprised the majority of the participants. It is said the international preacher Bro. Eli Soriano, the Presiding Minister of the group, is one of the very vocal supporters of this advocacy.

During his speech, Mr. Razon says he looks up to Bro. Soriano whom he credited for inspiring him to pursue noble and sincere humanitarian acts and the free college education being his latest. The first LVCC was located in Apalit, Pampanga. The first building houses more than 300 scholars, who all enjoys zero tuition fees, apart from other benefits such as free lodging, meals, uniforms, books and school supplies.

The second building, set to open in June this year, in Metro Manila hopes to welcome fresh students who will enjoy full college scholarships. Two courses are currently offered here: Mass Communications and Nursing.

The veteran broadcast journalist, more popularly known as Mr. Public Service through his numerous public service projects at UNTV, campaigns for volunteerism and goodwill through his advocacy called Kahit Isang Araw Lang.

“Each of us was given an opportunity by God to do good,” remarked Mr. Razon, adding “Our invitation to all is to start doing any act of goodwill in their own little way.” He encouraged people to not stop doing good deeds “even if it’s not under the Isang Araw Lang.”

“Wherever you are, whether you’re alone and you passed by someone who needs your help. Help. Whenever you see an opportunity to help others, do something,” the veteran broadcast journalist told the press in a brief interview.

Kenyan Willy Tanui emerges as the victor of the 21-kilometer run under men’s division and Miscelle Gilbuena under women’s division. Tanui closes at one hour and 14 minutes beating his compatriot Kiberess Kember who says he had a miscalculation of laps. Gilbuena, winner of 2009 Philippine International Marathon, finishes at one hour, 40 minutes and nine seconds.

Organizers said that majority of runners were registered in the 3-kilometer category then followed by 1-kilometer. The event also successfully assembled more than 6,000 children with ages ranging from seven to 12 years old. The longer races include the 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer categories. From each category, winners are given cash prizes and all race finishers are given a certificate of completion.

The event was organized by Sports 37 Productions, together with Breakthroughs and Milestones Productions International. UNTV was the media partner.

Prior to the event, Mr. Razon said he is hopeful the target number will be achieved. “We have done few firsts. First gold record in one day, first platinum record…hopefully we can do it again, with God’s help.”

Now, what he hopes for is real. Mr. Public Service makes yet another history – this time twice: in the history of Philippine sports and academic scholarship. The signals are clear: the more than 50,000 people who participated signals strong support to a noble and sincere cause when they believe such is worth pursuing and sustaining. (Written by Chris Anne Gonzales; Photo: K. Hasegawa)