ILOILO — Hundreds of runners gathered at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Grounds on September 13, 2026, for the Lingkod Bayani Run. The nationwide event marked the 126th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary and paid tribute to public servants who died in the line of duty.
A Race With Purpose
The Iloilo Provincial Government partnered with the Civil Service Commission Region VI to stage the event. All proceeds directly support the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani Program, which provides assistance to the families of fallen government workers. Every registration fee became an act of compassion for those left behind.
Provincial Administrator Raul Banias welcomed civil servants from national agencies, government-owned corporations, local government units, and the provincial government. CSC VI Regional Director Atty. Erna T. Elizan emphasized that the run promoted wellness, camaraderie, and pride in public service. She reminded participants to care for themselves while serving others.
Winners Across Distance Categories
The competition featured 3K, 5K, and 10K categories for male and female runners. In the 10K male category, Justine Estrologo of LGU Igbaras claimed first place. Jerson Defensor of DSWD VI took second, while Gabriel Bermejo of Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus finished third.
For the 10K female category, Nicole Amuan Arpa of the Maritime Industry Authority secured the top spot. Daisy Endencio-Robles of the University of San Agustin placed second, followed by Febrah Mae Tacorda of West Visayas State University in third. The 5K and 3K categories also produced strong performances from runners representing various agencies.
Provincial Employees Dominate Their Brackets
Iloilo Provincial Government employees competed in their own division, showcasing the athletic talent within the Capitol workforce. In the 10K male category, Jesal Mark Suarhaba of the General Services Office won first place. Angelo Sallorina of the Provincial Engineer's Office finished second, and Glenn Mark Ballon of the General Services Office placed third.
Lalaine Kay Decado of the Provincial Population Office topped the 10K female category. Jessa Salido, also from the Population Office, took second, while Mia Keen Resano of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office finished third. The 5K and 3K provincial categories also crowned deserving winners.
A Unified Celebration of Service
Special awards recognized the Department of Education and the Western Visayas Medical Center for having the most participants. Race winners received plaques and cash prizes from the CSC, while Capitol runners received additional cash prizes from the provincial government. The event embodied its theme, "Stride As One. Serve the Nation."
The Lingkod Bayani Run demonstrated that public service extends beyond office duties. It fostered unity among government workers while honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. As runners crossed the finish line, they carried forward a message of gratitude and resilience for the families of fallen heroes.
