21/02/2026
Unprepared, Unstoppable: Our 3K Journey to End Polio
“Our hearts were ready, but our legs didn’t get the memo.”😁
Before the sun fully rose over Iloilo, we gathered at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Grounds—not as trained runners, but as Rotarians moved by a cause far greater than a finish line. We may not have had the training, but we had the why.
Representing the Rotary Club of Metro Passi, President Alicia “Alice” Inocencio, Past President Grace, and I (Mike) joined the 3K Run. No preparations. No conditioning. We came with one intention: to support Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign and to live out this year’s call to Unite for Good.
The PIP Run was held in partnership with the Rotary Club of Iloilo West, under the leadership of Rotary District 3850 Governor Victor Federico “Pip” B. Acepcion. It stood as a meaningful expression of Rotary unity—clubs working hand in hand to advance our shared global mission of eradicating polio.
We started a little late, already trailing behind the pack. At first it felt manageable… until our lack of preparation slowly caught up with us. Three kilometers suddenly felt endless.
Our mantra quickly became: “Lapit na lang… lapit na lang…” — “We’re almost there… just a little more…”
We ran.
We walked.
We laughed.
We pushed each other forward—quietly hoping we wouldn’t be the last to cross the finish line. 😁
Along the way, the cheers of the guides and marshals reminded us that Rotary is never about perfection—it is about participation. That morning, we were simply being People of Action: showing up, moving together, and doing our part for a mission that continues to change lives.
At the turning point, a small rubber band was handed to us as proof we had reached halfway. It seemed like such a simple thing—but in that moment, it felt like a reward earned through effort. More than a marker, it became a symbol: even the smallest step forward matters. Even the simplest act helps move the world closer to a polio-free future.
As dawn unfolded over downtown Iloilo, the streets felt like they belonged to the runners. The historic beauty of Calle Real standing beside modern structures reminded us how service connects generations—past, present, and future united in purpose. It was a quiet realization that when we unite for good, we build something that lasts far beyond ourselves.
Then we saw it—the finish line.
Relief. Gratitude. Joy. And a shared laugh at how long those three kilometers felt without preparation.
We received our acrylic medals, but it was never about the medal. It was about the journey, the camaraderie, and the cause that brought us there.
For Grace and me, the run became more than just an event. It reflected how we journey through life together—sometimes unprepared, sometimes catching our breath, sometimes slowing down—but always moving forward side by side. Nothing fancy. Just small steps, tired legs, and a steady “lapit na lang” to keep us going — “almost there, keep going.”
That morning, we ran for those who cannot run because of polio.
In our own small way, we helped carry forward Rotary’s promise to the world.
Not with speed.
Not with training.
But with heart, faith, and action.
Because ending polio is not just a global campaign—it is a shared responsibility.
Will you join us in the Race to Zero?
Every step—no matter how small—brings us closer to a world where no child will ever suffer from polio again.
Learn more and support the cause: https://www.endpolio.org/
