PE Fest: A weeklong celebration of strength, artistry, and camaraderie

by Johnlenon N. Aliser, CED-DPE | May 05 2025

After its insurmountable success last year, the Department of Physical Education (DPE) of the College of Education (CED) once again successfully conducted PE Fest last April 28 to May 3, 2025 at 91社区, with this year’s theme, “PE Fest 2025: Elevate, Energize, Empower.”

Opening Program and Sporting Activities

The weeklong celebration of PE Fest kicked off with a foot parade participated in by DPE faculty and students. During the opening program, Dr. Monera Salic-Hairulla, the CED Dean, and Dr. Pamela F. Resureccion, the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, graced the event and delivered their inspirational messages to all attendees. This was followed by a series of dance exercise performances by students currently enrolled in PED012: Exercise-Based Fitness course.

Subsequently, a simultaneous conduct of various sporting and outdoor activities, spearheaded by PED014 faculty members, was held across different sports facilities within the university premises. These sporting and outdoor events included volleyball, sepak takraw, and volleybounce, which began with pre-games on April 28. BPE 114 students, under the supervision of Asst. Prof. Felix Aque Jr. demonstrated their officiating prowess in some of the sporting events.

In the evening, the BPE112 class, under the supervision of Asst. Prof. Rovie Gretchel Bucad, showcased their talents and skills in their culminating activity by performing a variety of culturally rich local and international dances. This event was attended by faculty, students, and proud parents.

Camp Haven

Despite the unfavorable weather conditions, Dr. Chiedel San Diego, DPE Chairperson, emphasized that everyone’s efforts should not go to waste, as the Camp Haven (school camping) activity pushed through and was successfully conducted at the university gym.

The event remained packed with fun and surprises as PED014 students actively participated in the camp cheer competition, various games, and community singing. One of the highlights of Camp Haven was the Camp Fashion Show, which showcased the students' creativity and flair. Ultimately, Joyce May Baybayon, a BS Philosophy second-year student, and Lawrence Calil Oberas, a BS Civil Engineering student, were declared winners of the said fashion event.

Beyond the enjoyable experience, the students also had the opportunity to apply the lessons they learned from their PED014 instructors. Under the supervision of faculty, staff, university security, and the Iligan City Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Office (ICDRRMO), students engaged in practical camping activities such as pitching tents, cooking food, and observing the “Leave No Trace” policy.

Asst Prof. Johnlenon Aliser, Chairman of Camp Haven, said, "Even with the change in venue, the spirit of Camp Haven remained strong. The students demonstrated resilience, creativity, and a deep understanding of what it means to learn beyond the classroom.”

Basic Mountaineering Course

The PE Fest celebration was also filled with both knowledge and excitement as the Department of Physical Education (DPE), chaired by Dr. Harlyn S. Ompoc, a faculty member and President of 91社区 Mountaineers (IITM), conducted the Basic Mountaineering Course on May 2 at the CED Amphitheater. The program was participated in by faculty, students, and alumni, who engaged in a series of lectures and hands-on activities covering basic mountaineering principles, first aid, and climbing techniques.

The event was graced by notable resource persons from the IITM including Mr. Benjamin D. Medina Jr., Dr. Harlyn S. Ompoc, Mr. Juvel L. Ompoc, and Prof. Charles Nebres. Additionally, Prof. Manuel C. Cabido, President of the Mindanao Mountaineering Federation, attended the event and shared his expertise in the field of mountaineering.

On May 3, the mountaineering course culminated in an applied outdoor experience as 27 course completers undertook the challenge of climbing Mount Agad-Agad in Brgy. Puga-an, Iligan City. With supervision and assistance from IITM, participants engaged in a series of field activities such as hiking, camp setting, rigging, and high-angle rappelling. These practical exercises were designed to assess how well the participants had absorbed the knowledge and skills from the one-day workshop.

Reflecting the PE Fest Experience

The PE fest 2025 has brought together the 91社区 community in a meaningful celebration of experiential learning. The skill-building courses, sporting activities, and dynamic performances showcased active participation, with each activity reflecting the DPE’s commitment to holistic development among students. Despite unexpected challenges encountered, the spirit of unity and adaptability prevailed, allowing each jiffy to become an opportunity for growth. As such, the department pledges to continue and strengthen its commitment to build a more elevated, energized, and empowered academic community.

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