Photo credit to Barns Dasugo
1,700 JOIN ZSBPPO'S INAUGURAL BALIK ESKWELA HALF MARATHON TO SUPPORT EDUCATION
IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – More than 1,700 runners from Zamboanga Sibugay and neighboring provinces laced up for a worthy cause as the Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office (ZSBPPO) successfully held its first-ever Balik Eskwela Half Marathon 2026, combining the promotion of physical fitness with its advocacy to support students returning to school.
Staged at the ZSBPPO Grounds in Sanito, Ipil, the landmark event carried the theme "Run for Education, Run for the Future," highlighting the police organization's commitment to fostering stronger community partnerships while encouraging greater support for education.
Leading the initiative was Police Colonel Barnard Danie V. Dasugo, Provincial Director of ZSBPPO, who said the activity was designed not only to bring together runners but also to inspire collective action in helping young learners prepare for the upcoming school year.
"The marathon reflects our shared responsibility to invest in education and create opportunities for our children. It also strengthens the bond between the police and the communities we proudly serve," Dasugo said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Participants took part in three race categories—the 21-kilometer Half Marathon, 10-kilometer Run, and 3-kilometer Fun Run—with competitors ranging from seasoned athletes to first-time runners. Government employees, police and military personnel, students, running clubs, private organizations, families, and fitness enthusiasts all joined the event, showcasing broad community participation.
Outstanding male and female finishers in each category received trophies, race entitlements, and cash prizes during the awarding ceremony in recognition of their impressive performances.
Beyond the competition, organizers added excitement through a variety of special awards that celebrated creativity and camaraderie. Honors such as Best in Attire, Best Back-to-School Themed Attire, Sweet Couple Runner, Family Spirit Award, Barkada Runner, Youngest Finisher, Most Seasoned Runner, Most Photogenic Runner, and Most Energetic Runner reflected the event's inclusive and family-friendly atmosphere.
The successful conduct of the inaugural Balik Eskwela Half Marathon underscored the ZSBPPO's continuing efforts to go beyond traditional law enforcement by promoting community engagement through meaningful public service initiatives.
With thousands taking part in the historic event, the marathon demonstrated how a shared commitment to education, health, and volunteerism can unite people from different sectors in pursuit of a common goal, helping build a brighter future for the youth of Zamboanga Sibugay.
