IN LINE with the town’s 247th founding anniversary, the local government held a Zumba marathon Wednesday evening, November 14,in an aim to promote healthy and fun living among its people.

Hundreds of health enthusiasts gathered at the Nuestra Señora Parish Church grounds to dance in the three-hour aerobic fitness marathon led by celebrity instructor Regine Tolentino.

Mayor Leonora Wong, whose sickness did not stop her from dancing with her fellow Simonians, stressed that health and wellness has been one of the top priorities she wants to advocate to her constituents to ensure a healthy Simonian community.

“I have always believed that ‘W’ does not only stand for Wong, but also for wellness. As you grow old, you will understand the importance of wellness in one’s self that is why I have been a health advocate and I wanted to promote it to my fellow Simonians so everyone of us will enjoy a long healthy life together,” she said.

“Tonight, we invited celebrity dancer and instructor Regine Tolentino to invite more Simonians in engaging in this healthy activity and for them to know and understand that healthy isn’t always boring but is rather fun and enjoyable,” she added.

Wong added that the Zumba marathon is just a kick-off of the annual Sun-Sea-Moon Festival celebrated every 15th of November in an aim to get together Simonians and celebrate their roots.

“We have lined up activities that are sure to bring joy to our Simonians of all ages. The Zumba marathon was open to everyone, young and old, boys and girls. We also have poster making for our students, and the Mutya Ning San Simon. Everything is inclusive because in San Simon, we believe in one mantra and that is ‘Abe-abe, Saup-saup, Alang Malakwan’,” she said.

Meanwhile, comebacking mayor Rodrigo “Digos” Canlas also joined in the celebration and danced with Tolentino and other Zumba dance enthusiasts during the marathon.

“I salute the local government for coming up with this activity which is not only for fun but more importantly promotes healthy living among every Simonian,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to Wong’s administration for continuously celebrating the roots of San Simon through the Sun-Sea-Moon Festival held annually.