Anne Curtis Once More Runs for Children to Commemorate UNICEF's 70th Anniversary

It's amazing how one whole year has already passed since UNICEF and its Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis initiated the Heroes for Children Run. I was there when Anne jubilantly crossed the finish line for her first 21k run and admired her determination to conquer her goals (read that story, here).

with fellow runner, Anne :)

This year, she is once more calling on runners to support UNICEF and Heroes for Children Run 2016. happening on September 4, 2016 at the SM Mall of Asia grounds. During the press conference held in F1 Hotel the other day, Anne was asked how she survived her first half marathon and she admitted that however hard it was to push herself, "Best effort talaga but I knew what I was running for and that kept me going."

Her motivation is UNICEF's First 1,000 Days campaign for children's health and nutrition needs. "I was deeply inspired by the support we received during last year's run. From children with disabilities to serious runners, the public came together for a great cause. This year, I'm inviting everyone once again to be a hero for children," implored Anne.

Anne Curtis, Lotta Sylwander, and Coach Rio Dela Cruz

Lotta Sylwander, UNICEF Philippines Country Representative, shared that for the past 70 years, the organization has worked to improve the lives of the most disadvantaged, vulnerable, and excluded children around the world. "Despite the many gains, the lives and futures of millions of children are still in jeopardy. In the Philippines, one out of three children under the age of five suffers from chronic malnutrition -- the effects of which can be permanent, irreversible, and even fatal after two years of age," she explained. "UNICEF believes every child should have a fair chance at life."

To those who are not familiar with this advocacy, the First 1,000 Days programme focuses on prenatal and early childhood interventions to prevent undernutrition, including quality care for mothers, proper nutrition and complementary feeding, and life-saving treatment for severe acute malnutrition. This is very important for every child as the effect of good health and nutrition lasts well into adulthood and is a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty.

what comprises the first 1000 days in a child's life

According to Sylwander, if we have well-fed and healthy children, they can go to school and find jobs when they grow up. "Proper nutrition and nurturing on the first 1,000 days will help children grow, learn, and earn." She further stressed that reducing malnutrition not only saves lives but also lowers health costs, builds human capital, and spurs economic growth.

In 2015, more than 3,200 runners raised PhP3 million for the benefit of the First 1,000 Days programme. This year, Anne and UNICEF hopes to attract even more running enthusiasts to raise additional funds for the campaign.

Heroes for Children Run advocates answer questions from the media

Sylwander expressed how grateful they are for Anne's dedication and significant contributions in raising awareness and funds for children in need. "Anne's power lies in her sincerity and genuine passion in everything she does. Through her support, we will continue to make a huge difference for children in need."

Online registration is ongoing at www.runrio.com/HeroesforChildren until August 19 while in-store registration ends by August 28, 2016 at the following Chris Sports outlets: SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM City North Edsa, SM City BF Homes, Glorietta, Market! Market!, Robinsons Place Manila, and UP Town Center.

available race categories, fees, and gun starts

For those who will be unable to run on race day but would like to still extend their support for the advocacy, please send your donations through Anne's personal fundraising page at www.simplygiving.com/event/HeroesforChildren2016. 

The run is just one of the many activities planned for 2016 to commemorate UNICEF's 70th year in helping build a better world for every child. To know more about the run and UNICEF's programs, visit www.unicef.ph or call 758-1000 from Mondays to Fridays, 9AM to 6PM.

hubby and I with Coach Rio

Heroes for Children 2016 is organized by Anne Curtis and event partner RunRio through the support of SM Mall of Asia, Cherry Mobile, Gatorade, Toy Kingdom, Swatch, Maynilad, Philippine Star, SM Cinemas, Nyxsys Philippines, Chris Sports, and F1 Hotel.