SAN FERNANDO, July 23 -- Thousands of runners from the four provinces of Ilocos Region are set to join the Kalasag-Dagat community run early Friday, demonstrating unity and strengthening public awareness of the significance of the West Philippine Sea.

Initiated by the Police Regional Office-Ilocos (PRO- I) based at Camp Brigadier Oscar Florendo in San Fernando City, La Union, the event will be held simultaneously across four provinces in the region to show support for the role of coastal communities in promoting environmental stewardship, maritime security, and national unity.

Organizers said the community-run event aims to promote patriotism, solidarity, and public awareness of the country's maritime interests and disaster resilience w...