This is the third time that the PSE is holding the bull run, which is now sanctioned by the Philippine Amateur Track and Field Association (PATAFA).

Mr. Francis Lim, PSE President and CEO, expects over a thousand participants to join the annual fun run, dubbed PSE Bull Run.

"It is my fervent hope that we can hit two birds with one stone by holding the PSE Bull Run," Mr. Lim explained. "We promote health consciousness and at the same time we create added awareness about our surging stock market."

Local stock prices, as tracked by the PSE, closed last year at 2,982.54 points, or 42.3 percent more than its 2,096.05 level in 2005, and its highest mark after it hit 2,990.96 points on April 7, 1997. The index also posted last year its fastest growth rate since it recorded a 154-percent annualized hike in 1993.

"Based on such performance, the stock market is really a good alternative investment where ordinary Filipinos can keep their savings," Mr. Lim noted.

Dignitaries who have supported earlier Bull Run events included former President Fidel V. Ramos, Senators Franklin Drilon and Pia Cayetano-Sebastian, Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, Trade and Industry Secretary Peter Favila and members of the foreign diplomatic corps, as well as executives from numerous corporations. They have joined up to 1,500 running enthusiasts from all walks of life who are drawn every year to the PSE Bull Run.

Participants can join any of the three PATAFA-sanctioned categories: The three-, five- and 10-kilometer races. Male and female winners in each category will receive prizes and trophies, with all participants getting a chance to win other prizes in a raffle draw to be held right after the end of the races.

The PSE will use donations and registration proceeds from the fun run to support an educational drive, which is designed to foster the growth of the stock market.

For registration and other race details, you may call 7470383 or 688-7537 to 38 or send a text message to 09174475639.