Energizer runs for a brighter world

Around 3,000 running aficionados in the Philippines will run in the dark with nothing but headlamps to help Energizer spread its global advocacy on affordable solar lighting for poor communities off the grid.The Philippine leg of Energizer Night Race 2013 aims to raise awareness about the brand's pledge to donate 13 million hours of solar light to communities without electricity around the world this year, in partnership with California-based non-profit One Million Lights (OML)."This race ties in with our drive and commitment in providing consumers with durable yet eco-friendly means of lighting while showcasing our own products," Energizer Philippines managing director Todd Montgomerie said in a press conference launching the event yesterday.The Energizer Night Race Manila is the fifth held in the Philippines and will coincide with other night runs in 18 countries, according to its website, with the theme "Race for a Brighter World." It will be held at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig on 4 May.Part of the proceeds from Energizer Night Race Manila will be spent to donate 1,000 solar-powered lamps to OML Philippines, while the rest will be for hearing aids and batteries for GMA Kapuso Foundation.An activity normally reserved for daylight hours, the run has attracted throngs of running aficionados for its out-of-the box approach. Participants are kept on their toes with only Energizer LED Headlamps lighting their path as they grind through the course at nightThis year's race is sponsored by Schick and will be managed in partnership with GMA Network who tapped an undisclosed events agency.Energizer Night Race Manila will be limited to the first 3,000 runners in both the men's and women's divisions of the 5K and 10K distances. Montgomerie explains that the slots were limited to ensure security and safety during the race.So far, Energizer has donated 11 million hours of solar light in 2011 and 12 million hours in 2012 through more than 30 races globally with OML, a California-based non-profit which aims to donate a million solar lights to replace dangerous and polluting kerosene lamps.The Energizer Night Races is part of "that's positiveenergy,"   a new slogan adopted by Energizer in 2010 to show its commitment to produce quality products ranging from batteries to flashlights without undermining the environment.