For the past years, the National Geographic Channel (NGC) has continuously featured documentaries and implemented special programs in an effort to raise awareness on Earth Day and the impact of global warming among its viewers.

Now, in a bold move to not only inspire more people to care about the planet but to help combat the effects of climate change, NGC is calling on all Filipinos — students, professionals, athletes, celebrities, health buffs, and entire communities — to sign up, go out, and participate in the first-ever Earth Day Run 2010.

To be held on 18 April 2010, 5:00 a.m., at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, Earth Day Run 2010 will feature 3-kilometer (K), 5K, and 10K races. Registration fees are PhP500 (3K), PhP600 (5K), and PhP700 (10K), inclusive of a limited edition Earth Day Run 2010 technical shirt.

Interested runners and non-runners can register online at www.natgeorun.com until April 4, 2010. They can also register at the Nike outlet in Bonifacio High Street and Timex outlets in SM Mall of Asia and North EDSA until April 11, 2010.

“We hope that on April 18, more Filipinos will go beyond being aware of Earth Day and climate change, that for Earth’s sake, they will actually run, not just to be healthy, but to help make the environment fit for the challenges of climate change,” FOX International Channels Territory Director Jude Turcuato said.

Proceeds of Earth Day Run 2010 will support the Design Against the Elements (DAtE), a global architectural design contest that aims to provide a solution to the problems presented by climate change. This includes building affordable, sustainable, eco-friendly, and disaster-resistant model houses in Taguig City.

“Instead of using our funds to rebuild damaged communities after a major calamity, we can now focus our resources towards designing and building disaster resistant homes,” Turcuato said.