08/10/2025
We would like to clarify some of the allegations circulating regarding the incident involving one of our runners. We hope this helps answer certain questions and shed light on what truly happened. Along with this, we once again extend our deepest sympathy to the family, friends, and loved ones of Runner 50031, Jessie James Manatad. Please know that this incident has also been very difficult for us and has affected us emotionally.
1. Regarding the allegation that Runner 50031 was forced to continue walking after he had allegedly expressed his intention to withdraw from the race, we respectfully clarify that this claim is not true.
At around 9:41 A.M., at Station Manangahon (KM 33.5), Runner 50031 passed by together with Runner 50049 and asked the station marshal how many kilometers remained before reaching the next station. The marshal replied that it was approximately eight to nine kilometers (8-9 kms.) away. Runner 50031 and his companion then remarked, “Kaya ra diay”.
However, the said marshal already observed that Runner 50031 kept on flexing his legs signaling cramps. Runner 50031 later checked his GPX through his watch to verify the marshal’s estimate if it was accurate, and confirmed that the distance to the next station was indeed approximately 8-9 kilometers.
Between Manangahon Station and the next station which is Sumugbong Station, particularly in the Palo area (approximately 7 km from Manangahon), SAFER (San Francisco Emergency Response) personnel were stationed and on standby. According to the report of Runner 50031’s companion, Runner 50049, both of them continued their journey toward the next station after leaving Manangahon. Sadly, Runner 50031 lost consciousness about 100 meters before reaching the Palo area. His buddy immediately blew the whistle to call for help and rescue.
Within less than two (2) minutes, the assigned and trained SAFER personnel promptly responded to the call and immediately informed the organizers at the starting line, as well as the personnel with the standby rescue vehicle at Sumugbong Station. Emergency response was immediately administered to Runner 50031 by SAFER personnel, who are trained in Basic Life Support (BLS)
The terrain between Sumugbong and Palo area is challenging that reaching the area will take considerable time, nonetheless, the response team from Sumugbong station was able to arrive and gave on-site medical intervention to Runner 50031. The team worked to stabilize Runner 50031 and prepared him for evacuation. As the the organizers immediately proceeded to the area with two (2) back up ambulance from the Local Government Unit (LGU) and Philippines Red Cross, the LGU medical team was on standby at the nearest accessible point from Sumugbong Station and had already coordinated with the D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital (DOPMH) to prepare for the runner’s arrival.
2. Regarding the allegation that there were no medical teams assigned in the middle stations where the incident occurred, we respectfully deny this claim. In truth, a total of twenty-one (21) SAFER personnel were assigned along the route including the PALO STATION. In terms of aid and hydration support, there were a total of six (6) Aid Stations and four (4) Hydration Stations strategically distributed along the 50-kilometer trail. Each Aid Station was manned by four (4) marshals, two (2) medics, and two (2) security personnel (PNP). Meanwhile, each Hydration Station was composed of two (2) marshals, two (2) medics, and two (2) security personnel (PNP). Specifically, at Station Manangahon, a medical team was duly assigned and on standby throughout the event to provide immediate assistance when necessary. These personnel had been deployed since around 5:00 P.M. on October 4, 2025. (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17CoSmxuT4/)
3. There was no hesitation or delay on the part of the rescuers, as trained personnel were already stationed just about two minutes away from the point where Runner 50031 collapsed. They immediately responded to the call for help and rendered assistance without hesitation.
4. As for the allegation on the dry run conducted which was allegedly participated only by seasoned runners, our team has opened the dry run activities to all participants and there was no exclusion of non-seasoned runners. We have publicly disseminated the dry run activities and even informed personally the participants. IT WAS OPEN TO ALL AND FREE. Also, the only requirement set by the MMUT 2025 organizers for participation in the 50 km trail run was that runners must have previously completed at least a 21 km race whether trail or road running.
5. Regarding the allegation that one of those who installed the trail markers also participated in the run, we respectfully clarify that this is untrue. Only the organizers’ technical personnel and partner agency were involved in the installation of trail signs, and they were not permitted to officially join the race. Should there be any claim to the contrary, we respectfully request that the concerned party provide proof or substantiation of such an allegation.
6. Regarding the allegation that the rescue took two (2) hours from the time it was reported, we respectfully clarify that this is incorrect. As stated earlier, Runner 50031 was promptly given medical attention within two (2) minutes after his buddy blew the whistle to call for help. Trained SAFER personnel immediately responded and administered the necessary intervention on-site.
We, at MMUT 2025 composed of the San Francisco Water District, the Local Government Unit of San Francisco (Municipal and Barangay), and AWRA Davao express our deepest sorrow over the incident, an unfortunate event that was beyond anyone’s control. In trail running events such as this, even those organized by experienced teams, unforeseen situations can still occur.
This is why we have worked closely with various agencies, stakeholders, and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) whose support and cooperation were vital in making this event possible. We are truly grateful for their commitment and assistance throughout the preparation and conduct of the race.
We sincerely hope that such an untoward incident will never happen again in any future trail event. Once again, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
If further clarification requires, we are open to any further personal discussion to answer any liability with the immediate family of the deceased Jessie James Manatad. As for other evidentiary matter, we reserve also the right to show it to the immediate family of the said runner.
