ERUF marks 25th year with running event

FOR 25 years, the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation (ERUF) has rescued lives in major emergency cases. This year, the group will mark its silver anniversary with a running event dubbed “ERUF 161 Run” on Sept. 11 at the North Reclamation Area, Mandaue.

The first-ever ERUF run is also held to raise funds to purchase a portable defibrillator in all its ambulances.

A defibrillator is a machine used to deliver electric shock to the victim’s heart to revive it. One defibrillator costs around P500,000, a price ERUF can hardly afford without outside help.

ERUF’s 25th anniversary on Sept. 11 will also commemorate the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attack in the United States. The “161” in the race’s title is from ERUF’s 161 telephone hotline.

Even though ERUF was accredited by the United States as an elite pre-hospital service second to Hong Kong, the group still needs high-end equipment to enhance its capabilities.

“We survive for 25 years because of contributions that is why we are very thankful to the local governments and private entities who aide us save lives, but we are still not 100 percent equipped, that’s why we need your help,” said Charlie Taquiam, ERUF board member during yesterday’s race launching at the Grand Convention Center’s Grand Majestic Restaurant.

With Taquiam were ERUF chairman Dr. Pek Eng Lim, Dr. Jesus Ravanes (board member), Mona Li (treasurer), Herminio Cortes (operations manager), former chairman Kenneth Chan and veteran race director Joel Baring of Sports and Fitness Enthusiasts (SAFE).

ERUF has 70 volunteer doctors, four attorneys and around a thousand volunteers here and abroad who are still active.

The Cebu City government, aside from giving funds, also promised to give ERUF a small portion of the South Road Properties (SRP) for its sea-related rescues. Also, six more trucks of different capabilities donated by the Netherlands will arrive this year as part of ERUF’s enhancement.

The run will have three categories, the 3-kilometer, 6k and 12k with P250 registration fee inclusive of a race singlet, race map and bib and refreshments.

The top 10 finishers will receive cash while registration sites are located in all ERUF bases and at the Cebu City Sports Center. Deadline for registration is Sept. 10. Special awards will be given to the youngest and oldest runner and the best in costume.  /CORRESPONDENT DALE G. ROSAL