Oblation Run at UPV calls for accountability amid corruption

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor 

Bare and unyielding, members of the Alpha Phi Omega (APO) – Kappa Gamma Chapter ran through the University of the Philippines Visayas–Iloilo City campus on Tuesday morning to demand accountability and transparency amid persistent corruption in government projects.

The naked run, a long-standing APO tradition across UP campuses, highlighted the group’s protest against corruption that, according to the fraternity, has crippled programs in flood control, education, labor, agriculture, and health.

More than 100 participants ran around the campus holding placards that called for accountability from officials linked to corruption, transparency in the use of public funds, and increased budgetary support for education, among other demands.

In a statement, the APO Kappa Gamma Chapter emphasized that the fraternity does not align with any political party, stating its loyalty lies with the principles of leadership, friendship, and service — and ultimately, with the Filipino people.

“While we acknowledge and support government actions that uplift communities and promote genuine progress, we also hold a civic duty to speak against policies, decisions, and practices that harm the nation,” the group said.

The fraternity noted that public trust continues to erode due to corruption, misinformation, and governance failures, adding that APO remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.

“This is not mere politics. This is patriotism,” the statement read, underscoring the fraternity’s view that the Oblation Run is a symbolic act of vigilance and service.

The Centennial Oblation Run was followed by a grand caravan later in the day, which traversed major roads in Iloilo City and nearby areas as part of APO’s centennial celebration.

The Oblation Run is an annual tradition observed by APO chapters across UP campuses, where male members run naked through public campus areas to symbolize selfless sacrifice, inspired by the iconic Oblation statue — a nude figure offering itself to the nation.

Initiated in 1977 at UP Diliman during martial law, the first run promoted an APO play titled Hubad na Bayani (Naked Hero), protesting censorship and human rights abuses.

The event honors APO’s founding on Dec. 16, 1925, and is held annually on or near that date.