Cagdianao pioneers trail run in Dinagat Islands
By Renelle L. Escuadro
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) – The local government of Cagdianao in Dinagat Islands recently spearheaded the first trail run in the province dubbed “Pahuyas sa Pandaynganan 5-Kilometer Trail Challenge,” fostering physical well-being and showcasing the town’s natural landscape.
Participated by 321 health enthusiasts and runners, comprising 200 locals and 121 open partakers, who arrived with excitement before the call time at 4:00 a.m. Determined to achieve ‘pahuyas’ or to sweat-off, they traversed the five-kilometer breathtaking and scenic terrain of Cagdianao and reached the majestic slopes of Mt. Pandaynganan, a haven for eco-tourism and outdoor exploration.
Mt. Pandaynganan, known as the red mountain because of its reddish terrain, is one of Cagdianao’s tourist landmarks located in Poblacion, Barangay Cabungbongan. It offers a trail comprising approximately 1,200 steps, an invitation to both adventure and panoramic views.
Mayor Marc Adelson Longos expressed gratitude to all the locals, participants from outside of Dinagat Islands, event committees and sponsors for showing their support to the activity.
He took pride in the unique trail challenge, saying,” I have been traversing this trail many times, but still it remains a dare especially with Mt. Pandaynganan’s elevation. Congratulations to all participants, especially to the finishers for the endurance and for the commitment to finish the race.”
Alfeel, champion of the said trail challenge, proved her exceptional stamina on feet on the trail, heart on the race. She received a cash prize of P10,000 and a trophy.
The participants appreciated the well-organized activity, including the post-meal with eight pieces of whole lechon, and the awarding of consolation and raffle prizes such as cash, sacks of rice and sports items.
Cagdianao, is a municipality in the Province of Dinagat Islands. It has 14 barangays, serving as a domicile of 4,466 households (2020 census).
As an ascending town, it has pioneered in many trailblazer initiatives in the province to support local economic activities and countryside development such as the first to offer a surfing destination through its Harok sa Tagbi; it provides the only direct sea route from the province to Del Carmen, Siargao Island; no. 1 lobster producer in Dinagat Islands; and the sole first class municipality of the province in terms of income class since 2024. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)
