A charitable outbreak

A zombie run in Manila redefines the meaning of “charity fatigue”… as runners run for fun, mother earth and a killer costume.

Devon Wong reports.

Running might be an intimidating sport for some, but what better way to start than putting your sweat towards raising money and the dead, for charity? 

Seven thousand runners take to the streets of Manila to participate in what can only be described as training for a zombie apocalypse. 

Aspiring zombies sent in audition tapes from across the country for the chance to live out the role of a lifetime: playing the undead.

But runners are equally prepared to run for their lives.

Chris Jovanovic and Ben Gregory, Runners/Zombie prey: We’ll definitely be a lot more tired I think

The Philippines ranks among the top twenty most generous countries in the world, according to the most recent report by the World Giving Index. And only second to Indonesia within Asia.

The unique event is a creative effort by organizers to get people active about giving. Zombies and runners agree to put their differences aside for a night to raise money for Greenpeace and a common cause they both call home: the earth.

Judy Malabanana, Runtertainment Inc: Well zombies are scary, but they’re environmentally conscious also. So with earth day coming up, then we didn’t just raise the living dead but we raised money for a green cause.

The event raises endorphins for participants who get to enjoy twice the feel-good factor.

Micah and Je Mercado, Runners/Zombie Prey: It’s actually a fun activity so if the money goes to a charitable institution, we’ll definitely run again for the next Outbreak run.

Organizers say they’ll continue thinking outside the box and beyond to get people energized for a good cause.

Devon Wong, Rappler, Manila

– Rappler.com