The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) organized a charity run with approximately 1,500 participants on March 21, 2026, to promote women's rights and health awareness during National Women's Month. The event, titled "Run with Her 2026," was held at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City under the theme "Serbisyo at Takbong Alay ng Sandatahang Lakas Para kina Juana at Juan Tungo sa Kapayapaan at Maayos na Kalusugan."
According to a press release from Colonel Xerxes A. Trinidad, Chief of the AFP Public Affairs Office, the run brought together military personnel and civilian partners to advance gender equality, promote health awareness, and strengthen community solidarity. The initiative was spearheaded by the AFP's Gender and Development Office as part of the organization's commitment to inclusive service and nation-building.
Charity Run Supports Gender-Based Violence Survivors
The "Run for a Cause" event was designed to generate funds for charitable institutions and non-government organizations that provide support services to women and children who are victims and survivors of gender-based violence. The proceeds from the March 21 event will be donated to selected organizations working in this field.
The AFP emphasized that the initiative reflects the military's role beyond national defense, extending into humanitarian efforts and social responsibility. The organization highlighted how the event recognizes the vital role of both women and men in achieving sustainable peace and development in the Philippines.
The diverse group of participants included active military personnel from various AFP units and civilian partners who joined the cause to show solidarity with efforts to combat gender-based violence and promote women's welfare.
Military's Commitment to Gender Equality and Development
The AFP's Gender and Development Office, which organized the event, has been instrumental in promoting gender-sensitive policies and programs within the military organization. The office works to ensure that gender perspectives are integrated into military operations, training programs, and community engagement initiatives.
The timing of the event during National Women's Month underscores the AFP's recognition of women's contributions to national security and peace-building efforts. March has been designated as National Women's Month in the Philippines since 1988, serving as a period to celebrate women's achievements and address ongoing gender-related challenges.
The run's theme, which translates to "Service and Running Offering of the Armed Forces for Juana and Juan Towards Peace and Good Health," emphasizes the inclusive nature of the initiative. By referencing both "Juana" and "Juan" – Filipino equivalents of "Jane" and "John" – the AFP highlighted its commitment to serving all Filipinos regardless of gender.
Health and Wellness Promotion Through Community Engagement
Beyond its focus on gender equality, the event also served as a platform for promoting health and wellness within military ranks and civilian communities. Physical fitness and health awareness have been key components of the AFP's community outreach programs, recognizing the connection between individual wellness and national security.
The approximately 1,500 participants who joined the run demonstrated the level of community support for initiatives that combine physical activity with social advocacy. The event provided an opportunity for military personnel to engage with civilians in a non-combat context, fostering better civil-military relations.
The AFP has increasingly used sports and recreational activities as vehicles for community engagement and social messaging. These events allow the military to connect with citizens while promoting important social causes and healthy lifestyles.
Documentation and Public Information Campaign
The event was documented by Staff Sergeant Joel Manzano PA from the AFP Public Affairs Office, ensuring that the initiative's message and impact could be shared with broader audiences through the military's various communication channels. The AFP maintains active social media presence across multiple platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Threads.
Colonel Trinidad's office coordinates the AFP's public information campaigns, using events like "Run with Her 2026" to showcase the military's community involvement and social responsibility initiatives. The documentation serves both as a record of the event and as promotional material for future similar activities.
The AFP's hashtag campaign accompanying the event – including #AFPyoucanTRUST, #OneAFPOnePhilippines, and #StrongAFPStrongPhilippines – reflects the organization's broader messaging strategy aimed at building public trust and national unity.
Broader Context of Military Social Responsibility
The "Run with Her 2026" event represents part of the AFP's evolving role in Philippine society, where military organizations are increasingly expected to contribute to social development beyond their traditional defense functions. This approach aligns with contemporary concepts of human security that encompass social, economic, and environmental dimensions of national well-being.
The military's focus on gender-based violence prevention and response reflects broader national and international commitments to protecting vulnerable populations. The Philippines has various laws and policies addressing violence against women and children, including Republic Act 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act) and Republic Act 11313 (Safe Spaces Act).
By channeling resources and attention toward supporting survivors of gender-based violence, the AFP demonstrates its understanding of how social issues intersect with national security concerns. Violence against women and children can undermine community stability and social cohesion, which are essential foundations for lasting peace and development.
The success of the March 21 event, as measured by participant turnout and community engagement, may encourage the AFP to organize similar initiatives in the future, potentially expanding the program's reach and impact across different regions of the Philippines.
Photo credit: SSg Joel Manzano PA / PAOAFP