Iloilo City has taken the challenge to become the Fitness City of the Philippines.
The City Government is the first local government unit (LGU) in the country to commit to the nationwide fitness and wellness campaign organized by trainers Jim and Toni Saret of the Philippine Olympic Committee.
The healthy lifestyle drive will be launched in Manila on May 23.
Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and City Hall department heads pledged to take part in the campaign dubbed as “Fit Filipino 1-Million Pound Weight Loss Challenge” during a Wednesday group meeting.
The campaign aims to gather 1 million pounds in the country within six months.
“When coaches Jim and Toni went here and presented the campaign, Mayor Jed said he will support it without hesitation. This is a jumpstart as we strongly aim to move more Filipinos to become healthier, fitter and stronger,” said Marge Tamayo, one of organizers.
The City Government committed to donate 7,200 pounds.
Tamayo said the Saret couple eyed Iloilo City as among the top fitness and wellness cities in the country.
“A lot of activities are being done while this city moves to become better, it is not far that it will become a fitness city, too,” stressed Tamayo.
She noted that those who will join will have to register and undergo a weigh-in.
“Each individual will be entitled to register. There will be a website and activation page which has yet to be announced. By the time they register, they will be given a code. There will also be walk-in registration to be made through our supermarket partners,” Tamayo explained.
By the end of the campaign, those individuals who lose 10 pounds will be given rewards and medals, she added./WDJ