IN celebration of the recently concluded National Disabilities Rights Week, Milo Philippines gave its full support to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in the first-ever Walk, Run & Roll: Inclusive Fun Run for Persons with Disabilities held at the University of the Philippines, Diliman in Quezon City.

More than 800 runners including national para-athletes took part in the running event to commemorate and recognize the abilities of every individual, most especially the Persons with Disabilities community.

“We are delighted to have our friends from both the PWD and non-disabled sectors come together to promote inclusivity and equality in the Walk, Run & Roll Fun Run,” said PSC Commissioner Walter Torres.

“It became a family affair for many of our participants because they have loved ones who are part of the community, and they joined the event to commemorate this meaningful cause.”

Miloparticipated in the festivities to bring champion energy through sampling and giveaways.

As a staunch advocate of sports inclusivity, Milo is committed to bringing sports to all Filipinos, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage in physical activities and pursue their aspirations through sports.

“For us at Milo, we believe that every Filipino from all walks of life has the right to access sports as a way to fuel their dreams toward success,” said Veronica Cruz, SVP and Business Executive Officer for Beverage & Confectionary, Nestlé Philippines.

“We are truly grateful to be part of this event to celebrate and champion the spirit of inclusivity within every individual.

Among its notable participants are Cleford Trocino, Moises Escobar and Jannil Cañete who form part of the Philippine men’s national wheelchair basketball team, the Pilipinas Warriors.

The multi-medaled athletes demonstrated their athleticism in the 5KM category, proving that perseverance and skill transcend any physical limitations to excel in sports.

“Malaking tulong po ito lalo na sa may kapansanan. Masaya kami na nakasama namin ang mga kapwa at kaibigan namin sa event na ito,” said Trocino.

In 2023, the Pilipinas Warriors won the silver medal in the 12th ASEAN Para Games held in Cambodia, marking one of their biggest achievements to date.

The team also competed in the qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Although they fell short, their determination remains unwavering as they set their sights on achieving their goal at the next Paralympics. “Ngayon nagte-training po kami araw-araw para sa competition at makasali uli kami sa qualifying,” said Cañete.

For their fellow Persons with Disabilities, they assured that there is a future for them in sports. Escobar said,

“Lahat naman tayo may kanya-kanyang mga talento. May mga program na para sa atin mga PWD, tuloy lang kayo at huwag mahiya.” Trocino added.

“Maging positive lang tayo palagi. Kung ano ang goal natin sa buhay, focus lang talaga. Pagtiyagaan lang natin kasi balang araw makukuha natin ang mga pinapangarap natin.”

For more details about the MILO, visit the official website website (http:// www.Milo.com.ph), and follow the official Milo Philippines Facebook page (https:// www.facebook.com/MILO.ph), TikTok (@Milophilippines) and Instagram (@MILOPhilippines) pages.