12th Annual Padyakan Sa Bataan - 2017

Going to places I’ve never been before sounds cool and at the same time, challenging. It also deals with adventures and some sort of things that yet to be discovered because life is full of surprises. Last Sunday, in lieu of “Day of Valor” most known as “Araw ng Kagitingan” for Filipinos, I witnessed the fun kick-off as Bataan celebrate its 75^th year anniversary. The festivities started with the annual “Padyakan sa Bataan” event which is already on its 12^th year.

“Day of Valor” commemorates the fall of the Bataan peninsula during World War II after months of fighting between the Philippine and American armies against the invading Japanese. The 70,000+ united Philippine-US army, depleted of food, medicine and ammunition, was forced to surrender to the Japanese on 9^th of April, 1942. The now prisoners of war consisted of 68,000 Filipinos and 11,796 Americans. The Japanese, unprepared for the large number of prisoners, decided to move them by foot from Bataan to another base located 140 kilometers (90 miles) away in San Fernando.

On this forced trek, known as the “Death March of Bataan”, many prisoners died due to starvation, disease, dehydration and exhaustion on their way to San Fernando. Many prisoners were also murdered along the way. However, the prolonged defense of the Bataan peninsula hindered the Japanese army’s progress, enabling the Filipino and US forces to prepare for subsequent battles and ultimately win the war against the Japanese.

This gruesome period during the war is used as a reminder of the courage tenacity and willingness to sacrifice to the point of death by the Philippine and American forces. It also a day to remember Filipinos who continue to fight for freedom. The Araw ng Kagitingan is held every 9^th of April and declared as one of the Philippine holidays.

12th Annual Padyakan sa Bataan

In line with that, the Provincial Government of Bataan in cooperation with the Municipality of Mariveles, Bataan Tourism Council Foundation, Inc and the Bataan Trailriders and Adventures Network (BaTAAN) organized an annual event called “Padyakan sa Bataan” in celebration of “Araw ng Kagitingan” which held at Karagatan Bay View Peaks Bataan Freeport Area, Alas-Asin, Mariveles, Bataan.

The 12th Annual Padyakan Sa Bataan was the grandest festival in its history having an almost 700 participants. It also aims to promote wellness and healthy living. Furthemore, here are 10 Reasons WhyPeople Love the 12thAnnual “Padyakan Sa Bataan” and why more participants are joining year after year after year.

1. Registration is FREE.

Yah, you read it right guys! Registration is FREE and open for all whether you reside in Bataan or not. This event is also a great chance to see the beauty of Bataan and discover the history that lies beyond, besides, Bataan is just a 3-hour drive from Metro Manila via NLEX – San Fernando Exit.

2. Prizes! Trophies, Medals, Cash and Raffles are up for grab.

Joining is free and participants are going to take home lots of prizes. Medals are given to 5^th and 4^th placers while Medals and Cash are given to 3^rd, 2^nd and 1^st placer. Aside from that, raffle prizes are also given away which came from their ever generous and supportive sponsors such as FOX, Shimano, Max’s, and other cycling merchants. 

3. The venue has a fantastic view.

Being held at Karagatan Bay View Peaks Bataan Freeport Area, Alas-Asin, Mariveles, Bataan which is spacious enough to accommodate joiners, has a stunning overlooking view, have a glimpse of Mt. Tarak and enjoy breath-taking sunset.

Plaque of Appreciation for Sponsors, PNP and Fire Protection Bureau

4. Security and Safety comes first, always!

Of course, partnered with government sectors that promotes security and safety. Policemen are present and roaming around making sure that everything is peacefully in place and having fun in the event. Ambulance is also available to assist whenever mishap or accident happen.

5. Race categories are designed for everyone and yes, even for a 3-year old kid.

The race who loves to accommodate everyone and when I say everyone, it is from kids as young as 3 year-old and adults as old as 69. Everyone can join in a category that perfectly fit for whatever your heart desires. Women and first-timers have also a place in “Padyakan sa Bataan.” Shame on me, first time to hear about push bike and kids look cute and adorable in their mini bike.

Participants of the Push Bike Category

6. Promotes healthy lifestyle.

Bataan is actively encouraging everyone to have a healthy lifestyle and biking is one of a good venue to be physically fit while getting closer with nature.

7. It calls for an adventure.

This is event perfectly shouting ADVENTURE. With the race trails that up and downhill with obstacles along the way, it could test your physical and mental ability. Participants have to push their limits and perhaps, through joining on this annual event, discover strengths that help them go through with their lives.

8. A good venue to hone your skills with the support of family and friends.

Since race categories are designed for everyone then the whole family could participate. Or maybe, bring your friends and have fun doing the race. By the way, most of the participants during the 12th Annual “Padyakan Sa Bataan” were families and group of friends. And I find it amazing to see parents supporting and honing the skills of their children. It is more like of building the confidence and bringing out the best in their kids.

9. Make friends with people who have the same interest as yours.

Joining events like this also connotes of knowing and getting along with other people having the same interest as yours. It is wonderful experience to gather in one place and one events that you may gain and share knowledge from the people you met. Be with people who going to push you and go beyond your limits and as well as, overcoming your fears.

10. Explore Bataan!

Since you already in the vicinity, then might as well, explore Bataan! It has beautiful beaches and resorts, mountains, and destinations perfect for a side trip. On the other hand, World War II is an interesting topic that I like since I heard about it (hmmm… since grade school) and I always had goosebumps in getting to know its history and how brave our ancestors to fight for our freedom that I indulge now.

I bet, after reading this, you already look forward for the 13^th Annual Padyakan sa Bataan. Well, I do and hoping that I could be one of the participants that would enjoy the experience and the race trails that calls for an adventure. More than anything else, a big THANK YOU, Bataan Tourism for the warm welcome and for a such exciting and splendid experience. I can’t deny it, I had fun.

More so, for details and announcement about “Padyakan sa Bataan”, please visit their Facebook Page, www.fb.com/padyakansabataan and  for information about Bataan Tourism, visit www.fb.com/bataan.tourism.

Have a great day ahead! 

o O o 

Schedule of Activities in celebration of 75th Araw ng Kagitingan.

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Always remember, dreams do come true! Explore. Discover. Learn.  Have a great day!
Xoxo, Aylin
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