DepEd backs unity swim (3:56 p.m.)

MANILA -- The Department of Education (DepEd) has thrown its full support to the Peace and Unity Swim that aims to smash the Guinness world record for the most number of swimmers in a non-stop 24-hour marathon relay.

The event slated December 10 at the 18.3-m pool of the Diliman Preparatory School in Quezon City, enjoined DepEd officials and personnel to participate based in an advisory dated July 30.

“DepEd as a huge organization is mandated to develop the country’s human capital which will shape the future of the Filipino race,” the DepEd said, citing DepEd Order No. 39.

Aside from breaking the Guinness record currently held by Italy, organizers led by former Senator and DPS president Nikki Coseteng said they wanted to bring together all sectors of society-- from national athletes to any Filipino who can swim the distance.

“The event aims to impart the concept of swimming as a complete, injury-free sport, which Filipinos must learn and enjoy as a physical activity because we are nation of islands,” said Coseteng. (Virgil Lopez/Sunnex)