MANILA -- It’s all systems go for the Philippine International Marathon, a run for the rehabilitation of Pasig River, which will take place on November 8.

Organized by Kapit Bisig para sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP), the run, with categories in 3 kilometers, 5K, 10K and the full 42K marathon, aims to boost awareness about the Pasig River rehabilitation project.

The marathon's main feature is the 42K full marathon, which can also be run by a relay team of 40 people.

The route has been designed to provide the public a glimpse of the state of the river with its non-traditional route crossing 9 of the 13 bridges of the Pasig River, and with portions to be run alongside the river.

Gunstart for the full marathon is at 4:30 a.m. at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park.

The run is open to the public with a participation fee of P250. Corporate groups may also register as a team.

Gina Lopez, managing director of ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.,  one of the lead partners of KBPIP, called on the public to show their support for the multi-sectoral effort to save the Pasig River:

“The marathon is a step of faith. Together we can go the distance and clean the river,” she said.

Through the marathon and its P250 registration fee, she said they hope to raise funds to relocate the families, including young children occupying the river bank under poor living conditions.

“At the same time, we can work on cleaning up the river,” she said.

Ambie Burac, campaign media promotions and management head, said part of the funds to be raised through the event will also be used for the livelihood projects of those who will be relocated.

“We need at least P30 million for the projects...Part of it will come from the fund raiser,” she said.

Lopez explained the importance of relocating people who live near the river.

“We have to protect these families from being exposed to the river. At the same time, the relocation will also decrease the volume of waste being dumped into the system,” she said.