OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF CEBU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY - MAIN CAMPUS
PARKS
2 SPORTS
7 FEATURES
UNIT II GRABS GOLD IN HIGH-STAKES MEN’S 5X5 BASKETBALL FINALS
halftime.
Unit II (COT-Day) finished victorious in a thrilling Men’s Basketball 5x5 Championship game, defeating Unit III (COT-Evening), 64-51, at the CebuTech Gymnatorium on November 5, 2024.
The championship game erupted with intensity from the opening, with Unit III showcasing their defensive prowess and taking a narrow 6-7 lead at the end of the first quarter. In a series of events, a dramatic turn hit Unit III, having one of their players sustain an open wound below the eyebrow after a collision. This led to Unit II extending their lead to 25-20 by
The third quarter brought a stirring shift in momentum when a technical foul resulted in the ejection of Jhavie Abing from Unit II. Despite the setba ck, both teams battled fiercely, with the score tied at 38-38 at the end of the third quarter.
The fourth quarter was a nail-biter. A brief stoppage occurred due to increasing tension between players and coaches, but communication between referees, coaches, and Dr. Nemia F. Zamora, the University Sports Director, helped ease the situation.
Continued on page 4
14 PANORAMA
Leoven Esparaguera, Unit II’s Team Captain, expressed his gratitude and pride in the team’s accomplishment, “We’re incredibly happy to have achieved our goal of es. It’s a huge source of pride ly since we faced a challenge with five of our key players
Meanwhile, Unit III took home the silver medal and Unit IV
Jacel Marielle Llemit
Sahaina Mae Paner
SPORTS 2
UNIT II DOMINATES GOLD AWARD IN WOMEN’S LAWN TENNIS FINALS
Enorio, Ariane Bernardo
Unit II (COT-Day) made an impressive mark, clinching gold in both Singles and Doubles Category of the lawn tennis event for this year’s Intramurals, held at the CTU-Main Tennis Court on November 5, 2024.
In the Singles event, Angela Anne Bantula of Unit II, a neophyte to competitive Lawn Tennis, stunned the crowd with her exceptional play. Despite her limited experience, Bantula approached the match with confidence, using strategic serves and precise groundstrokes to dominate her opponent from Unit VI, Jolly Ann Otero. With a 6-3 win, Bantula proved that even as a beginner, her commitment to the game and rapid improvement could lead to a gold medal-worthy performance.
Jean Dungog and Bellz Becoy of Unit II, playing the doubles match, also relatively new to competitive tennis, exhibited flawless teamwork and strategic play that surprised many spectators. From the very first game, Dungog’s powerful serves and Becoy’s quick reflexes at the net gave Unit II a clear advantage over their Unit VI opponents. Their dominant 6-0 victory was a testament to their natural chemistry and relentless practice, making them the standout duo of the day.
The players shared their experiences and challenges encountered on their journey to
success and their battle for the gleaming gold medals.
Bantula enthusiastically shared how she was supported and trained despite the pressure and physical pain she was experiencing, “I felt a little bit pressured. Kay first of all, I don’t play singles, and sakit akong tiil. Also, dili jud ko nindot og cardio, but with the support of my team, ila jud ko gi-train and gi-ingnan kung unsay sakto ug unsay sayop. Ila ko gi-push and gi-encourage nga kaya ra jud nako,” Bantula stated.
Meanwhile, despite being fourth-year students undergoing OJT, Dungdedicated their time to compete in Women’s
Lawn Tennis. With their dedication, they achieved their golden success, “Naninguha lang jud mi nga sakto among pahuway. Nag-practice sad mi even if naa mi OJT,” Dungog said.
“Ni-absent mi para maka dula lang. Supportive ra man pud among amo kay they play the same sports man. So, they support us sa intrams especially karon nga Championship,” Dungog added.
Despite being relative beginners in the sport, the team displayed remarkable skill, determination, and teamwork, earning them their gold medals to secure victory over Unit VI, who took home the silver in both categories.
Ruth
Xerces Pagao
SPORTS 3
UNIT VI REIGNS AS BACK-TO-BACK CHAMP
IN MEN’S VOLLEYBALL
Unit VI (CME) defended their throne as they struck a three-set win against Unit I (COEd), scoring 25-19, 2519, and 28-26 in the Men’s Volleyball Finals at Brgy. Tinago Gym on November 5, 2024.
In the first set, Kent Ventura from Unit VI released his might through delivering consecutive powerful attacks. Unit I tried to overcome these spikes using their rock hard defenses, yet Unit VI stayed unstoppable as they ended the set through a flaming spike.
Meanwhile, the supporters of each team went wild as they offered their cheers to the players.
During the second set, both
teams exchanged fierce defenses and offenses. Once again, Unit VI continued to reign as they finished the set with a monster block.
Finally, in the most anticipated set, Unit I tried to regain control using their deadly hits and solid defenses from their libero. Nevertheless, these were not enough to snatch the gold as they received back-to-back attacks from Unit VI.
In an interview, Ventura stated that winning the gold medal again felt surreal. With this, he was able to showcase his skills not just to his department but also to other colleges.
“I’m so proud of my teammates. As you can see we’re not as tall as everyone else… What made us win
was having courage and determination,” he added.
When asked about their preparation, teammate Lord Kyle Ambran noted that the only preparation they did was to have enough rest before the game, for they believed that it was the bridge to success.
Unit VI Coach Prof. Thea Aranas highlighted that she is beyond proud of her athletes.
“I’m very grateful to Sir Ryan because he came and to all the supporters who showed their support. I’m very overwhelmed by what we have accomplished today,” she added.
Despite the intense battle to the top, Unit I still proudly earned their silver.
Lawrence Godinez
Ritzgale Tuicoc
UNIT III LOCKS IN GOLD IN 3X3 MEN’S BASKETBALL
Unit III (COT Evening) sealed their fate with a gold medal after emerging triumphantly in a neckand-neck 3x3 Men’s Basketball championship game against Unit VI (CME), clinching a hard-fought 15-12 victory today, November 5, 2024, at the CTU-Main Gymnatorium.
Aldrin Arnoco from Unit III scored the first point on the board, setting the court to the team’s advantage.
Pulling off the initial scoring play, Sam Baldo from Unit III carried out a jump shot that fueled the team’s offense.
“Pasalamat ta sa Ginoo, sa among coach, ug sa among team. Padayon lang jud sa pag-
dula,” Baldo emphasized when asked about the strategies that kept their consistent lead in the game.
George Michael Reyes’ line of scrimmage powered Unit III’s defense, boxing out Unit VI and allowing their team to take control of the ball four minutes into the game.
The commanding lead quickly transformed into a nail-biter situation after Mark Jerol Obenieta of Unit VI scored a two-point shot, placing both teams on equal footing, 8-8.
The game was set to a frenzy with both teams bolstering with heightened defense; however, their physical defense drew fouls. This resulted in a warning penalty call for Unit VI, with six
team fouls accumulated.
With three seconds left before the final buzzer, Unit III wrapped up the finals with a 15-12 victory, taking the championship title.
The tight match between both units was an indication of the commendable performances between both colleges. Unit VI will now close their journey this year with a silver triumph.
UNIT II GRABS GOLD IN HIGH-STAKES MEN’S 5X5 BASKETBALL FINALS
Unit II claimed the gold medal with a hard-fought 59-51 victory, becoming back-to-back champions. The game saw both teams pushing each other to the limit, but Unit II ultimately triumphed.
Coach Jules Malabago, a BSTM professor, acknowledged the intensity of the game, saying, “Last year’s championship was very intense, so I take it as a normal day, and the players do as well.” He also emphasized the importance of staying calm and not
taking challenges personally. Team Captain Leoven Esparaguera expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment, stating, “We’re incredibly happy to have achieved our goal of winning back-to-back championships, especially with five key players unavailable. It’s a huge source of pride for our department.”
Unit III secured the silver medal, while Unit IV (COE) took home the bronze.
Angel Mae Flores
Ronavel Soriano
COED, CCICT SEIZES BRONZE IN MEN’S, WOMEN’S SEPAK TAKRAW
In a nerve-wrecking match for a spot to the finals games, Unit I (COEd) achieved bronze with a 1-2 standing against UNIT II (COT-D) in Men’s Sepak Takraw on November 5, 2024 at the CTU Grounds.
With their scores close to one another, captain of Unit I, Jhon Carlo Morpos said that they need more practice and collaboration to better compete with other departments and seize the Champion title.
“Happy sad mi nga naka 3rd mi, naka medal mi kumpara sa other departments nga wala naka medal so thankful mi nga nakakuha mi og 3rd place.” He added.
For Morpos, the biggest lesson during their game is to persevere more because they want to do better as he observed that they still lack in some aspects.
Coach of Unit VII, Mr. Marcial T. Pepito said, “Actually, wala jud ni gi expect but sometimes sa ilang ingon lagi nga lingin sad ang bola mao nang naa jud times nga dili jud nato maabot ang atoang goal pero again sportsmanship ra gihapon amoang gi buhat, at least na enjoy akong mga player unya na enjoy pud ang tanan nga nananaw.”
When asked about how they felt after acquiring bronze, Captain of Unit VII Flora Mae B. Taburnal said they felt pressured and it was the most memorable game, as two players are graduating.
As a graduating student, Taburnal expects the next team members to do their best and follow their footsteps, especially since they were Silver medalists last intramurals.
With that, Unit II of both Men and Women’s Sepak Takraw advances for the finals game vying for Gold.
UNIT IV (COE) DOMINATES EARLY LEAD IN MEN’S, WOMEN’S CHESS
A tussle of strategic moves in round-the-clock Chess matches is felt as student-athletes from various colleges battled for the top spot in both Men’s and Women’s Chess earlier today, November 5, 2024, at the CTU Learning Resources Center.
As the first day of the Round Robin matches wrapped up, Unit IV (COE) took the lead in both the
Men’s and Women’s divisions, establishing a solid start. In the Men’s category, Unit IV (COE) garnered an impressive 22.5 points, followed by Unit III (COT-Evening) with 14 points, and Unit VI (CME) with 11 points.
Similarly, in the Women’s category, Unit IV (COE) led with a partial score of 14, while Unit I (COEd) and Unit V (CAS) followed closely with 11 and 9.5 points, respectively.
In an interview, undefeated player Dexter Belandres from Unit IV expressed pride in his team despite some round losses and looks forward to tomorrow’s deciding match.
Bea Ma. Cassandra Rosal also shared her preparation for the last two matches. She said, “Siyempre, naa g’yud na ang good sleep para naay energy and practice chess online, and hopefully ugma makuha namo ang first prize.”
Ryan Mandawe
Julienne Amarillo
Kirby Kim Baylon
FEATURES 6
MORE THAN JUST A WHISTLE
In the midst of the noisy crowd and the excitement of the game, not many people pay attention to the person running back and forth on the court, holding a whistle and ensuring the game stays fair and controlled.
For Rolando D. Gohetia, being a referee is more than just a job—it’s something he loves. “I’ve always loved basketball,” he says. “I played when I was younger, but life led me down different paths. When I turned 30, I realized how much I missed being on the court, so I decided to become a referee.” However, being a referee has
its difficulties. Handling upset players and coaches is part of the job. “I always treat them with respect and explain why I made each call. Good communication is very important,” Gohetia explained.
Even with his experience, he admits that, sometimes, referees doubt their decisions. “Yes, there have been calls I wish I hadn’t made,” he says, “but no referee is perfect. Making tough decisions, learning from them, and moving forward are all part of the job.”
One misconception Gohetia wants to clear up is how referees are “just referees.” “We’re
FLIGHT TOWARDS NEW HORIZONS
Julienne Amarillo
Picture yourself in the shoes of an eagle who is learning how to fly encouraged by an adult to take the leap, doubts are certainly the first feeling you’ll feel but you will always wonder what lies ahead.
Captain of UNIT I (COED) Hydie Arnol, a 3rd year student in BTVTED major in Electrical Tech who is fighting to place for the finals game left her family’s nest of Athletics and flew to explore a new sports path, “Women’s Futsal” a sport that is just starting to gain its popularity in the country.
Starting her journey in this sport
is similar to an eagles journey of flying, with the help of their coach who motivated her to join the sport amidst having no idea enabled Arnol to move out of her comfort zone and try new things.
She explored the sport along with their created CTU-MC team in which they would play together on various tournaments where she got to learn what is really the essence of playing Women’s Futsal.
When Arnol was asked on what was her experience during her first year as a newbie on the sport she said, “lingaw siya nga kapoy kay akong sapatos dili pajud ingani (futsal
more than that. We’re the communicators of the court, making sure the game is fair and peaceful for everyone—players, coaches, and fans alike,” he insists. He left advice for those looking to follow in his footsteps: Don’t give up. Even if it doesn’t happen right away, keep reaching for your dreams.
Looking back on his time as a referee, Gohetia sees life as a basketball game. “You’ll have good times and bad times, but it’s your choice to keep pushing towards your goal.”
Janah Gene Flores
shoes), rubber shoes to siya unya nabuslot najud to siya pero naka third place pajud mi ato.”
Playing the sport for quite some time already made her the captain of the current team and Arnol serves as the role model of their team, she stays grounded by always reminding her teammates to never treat her so high as they are all equal in being players and students in the university, all she wants to do is to fully guide them onto what is right or wrong.
FEATURES
Balancing her studies and life as an athlete, it was never hard for her to juggle her responsibilities as she always aims to finish her academic tasks first before training to avoid getting worried while playing.
Looking back at her first journey in playing futsal, Arnol feels grateful for her younger self because of her decision on playing the sport she got to know it on a deeper level and she enjoyed her college life as the sport also serves as her
stress reliever.
For Hydie Arnol, “keep fighting and never give up” is a quote that she highly instilled in herself as she continues to play the sport, especially now that they are on the fight for a spot with their aim to defend their title as champions since the last intramurals.
With Arnol’s sentiments, it attest that once an eagle caged in its own confinement, can flock its feathers and go beyond it anticipated.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF PERFORMANCE
June Clyde Laburada
The lights are out, and you’re face-to-face with an opponent, shadows dancing around as your pulse intensifies.
Breathe in. Breathe out.
As you shift your focus toward your opponent, you blur everything around you. This is the moment you’ve waited for—the competition you’ve prepared for so long. And then, the whistle blows.
For athletes, this moment embodies the quiet tension and laser focus of competition, a culmination of days—sometimes years—of mental preparation.
Amid the intensity of competition, many athletes display remarkable skill in managing their focus and resilience under
pressure. When faced with the thought of being called to represent their college, there is no denying that all eyes will be on them. The thrill of cheers and yells carries the risk of both glory and regret. Only those who can withstand the mental strain and physical demands rise above the challenges that come with this responsibility. It is only a matter of time before they gear themselves up for this upcoming battle.
When the pressure of joining a competition envelops one’s thoughts, many athletes and performers learn to rise above this setback, setting their minds to their goal. Athletes approach mental preparation in diverse ways, each finding personal methods to steady their nerves and sharpen their focus.
Esports Valorant athlete, Francis Louise Rodriguez, from
FEATURES 8
his pre-game ritual, showing that listening to sounds while practicing conditions his mind for the game ahead. Furthermore, Live Band violinist, Alyssa Grace Abad, said that chatting with other people helps her feel at ease despite the thoughts of the competition.
By the same token, while there are those who resort to meditative practices to relax their
minds, there are also athletes who believe in their faith to keep them going. “Pray lang gyud kay para maayo ang duwa,” said Stephen Dwight Legaspino, a chess player from Unit IV (COE).
In the end, mental preparation goes beyond skill and strategy. It’s about resilience, focus, and staying grounded in the moment. When the burden of
performance is laid and all seems out of control, being able to push forward is a simple question of mind over matter.
Whether through ritual, meditation, or faith, these athletes remind us that true strength lies within, ready to be called upon when the lights go out and the whistle blows.
A WOMAN’S SHOES IN A MAN’S SIZE
Janscre Manlangit
In a domain often dominated by men, one woman stands to rewrite the rules.
From small courts to fields, Dr. Nehemia Zamora, the University Sports Director of Cebu Technological University and Regional Sports Director for state universities and colleges under Region 7, has nurtured her vision across Bohol, Siquijor, Negros Oriental, and Cebu.
Driven by her commitment to see her beloved university shine on the national stage at the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA), Dr. Zamora has poured her heart and soul into her dream.
But this dream didn’t come easy. In the male-dominated world of sports leadership, she’s had to plant her roots deep and bring her own chair to the table, proving her voice worthy with each hard-fought step.
“Sometimes they don’t listen to
women. So I have to exert effort, make my point, and prove that what I say is worth it,” her words carry unwavering persistence.
Her resilience is rooted in the strength of her mother, her first inspiration and the true MVP of her life. Dr. Zamora’s mother sacrificed her own dreams to uplift her family, teaching her to rise above challenges and stay strong despite a father lost in his own vices.
Surrounded by campus sports directors and colleagues who fuel her vision, Dr. Zamora values collaboration and unity in leader - ship. “They are the wind beneath my wings,” she reflects with gratitude.
Her story is more than breaking barriers; it’s about lifting others and paving a future where women lead with power.
Dr. Zamora is not just building champions; she is creating a legacy, raising the bar for those who follow, and ensuring women’s voices are heard and their impact felt in every corner of every field.
To the women stepping onto this stage, her message is as bold as her journey: “Be firm.”
This is HERstory, and yours can be next.
THE NATION BUILDER
EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF A.Y. 2024-2025
FARRAH TUMULAK Editor-in-Chief
ADOLBEN MALABAGO JR.
LOVELY HEART REBUTADA
AUBREY PILAPIL
EARL MARIE PABINGUIT Associate Editors-in-Chief
MARY MARGARETTE BOHOL News Editor
JAFIA VERDIDA
MARK JENIELLE BANDAS Feature and Literary Editor
GWYNETH SIMBAJON Chief Copy Editor
ASHLEY ANN RODRIGUEZ Circulation Head
FELICIANO JHONG EPILI III Chief Layout Artist
JASMIN MEODE Chief Photojournalist
AERON ARADOR Chief Video Editor
JACEL MARIELLE LLEMIT Chief Cartoonist
ISIAH JADE LIGAS
MARIE NICOLE BARRIENTOS Circulation Managers
CLIFF JOHN ABAD
MICHELLE JEYEM AGUNDAY
JULIENNE ANNE AMARILLO
TRISHA MARIE AMPONG
MARIE NICOLE BARRIENTOS
KIRBY KIM BAYLON
JOLINA ANGEL BIDOLIDO
ELYSE CHRYSANTINE DABLEO
MARC JOHANNES DAJANG
RUTH ENORIO
RUSSEL JOHN FERNANDEZ ANGEL MAE FLORES
KURIE GONGUB
LOIS DANISE GRANADA
JUNE CLYDE LABURADA
JENTER EUNEL LANGBID
ABEGAIL MAE LERIEN
CORINE MADELINE LINGAOLINGAO
RYAN MANDAWE
FRANCILITO PAGUIA
RHUNA MAE POLANCOS
JEM KIRSTEN RUIZ
RONAVEL SORIANO Senior Staffers
RIOGENE ATAMOSA
ALECKSA LEANNE AVELLANA
ISHMAEL BATUIGAS
ARIANE BERNARDO
JOHN DHERICK CABUGUAS
JANAH GENE FLORES
KEZIAH ANDREA FOSTANES
LAWRENCE GODINEZ
MARY LOUISE LAGAHIT
KAESIA LAPIÑA
JIA MARIE LAPIZ
DENIS MAGNO, JR.
JANSCRE MITS MANLANGIT
DAIVEN REIGH MONFORTE
XERCES GABRIEL PAGAW
SAHAINA MAE PANER
JEREMIAH RAIN PLAZA
EG NEIL SARICON
RITZGALE TUICO Junior Staffers
BANAAG 2024: THE CALL FOR GOLD AND DISCIPLINE
In the spirit of true sportsmanship, oaths were verbally uttered with pride, sought to be pledged with integrity, and embodied with a plethora of fair play, honor, and respect. Since the event was longed for by the student community, you would think to yourself, “What could go wrong?“ However, disputes that have risen during Banaag 2024 say otherwise.
As Cebu Technological University-Main Campus continues on with the eagerly anticipated annual Intramurals, numerous events were introduced to Technologists, including the disputes and confrontations that occurred between the athletes, coaches, referees, and even the regional sports director during the Basketball Championship game between Unit II (COT-Day) and Unit III (COT-Evening).
Ranging from verbal clashes to an intense and aggressive matchup, it is safe to say that the championship match may have gotten a wee bit physi-
cal. This incident underscored the confusion that ignited from miscommunication, ultimately leading to the question of whether discipline is still widely disseminated among athletes.
As indicated by the University Sports Director, Dr. Nehemia Zamora, a misjudgment on the referee’s call caused the flareup between the teams.
“They thought that there was no call given, but actually, there was. That’s why they flared up in that incident,” Dr. Zamora stated.
When asked about his message to the athletes, Sir Jules Malabago, a professor from the COT department also shared, “They must take the challenges with ease and a very calm personality.”
The roles of athletes encompass attributes that only a few possess. Hence, Banaag 2024 is celebrated. It is an avenue that seeks to uplift accountability and the strength that discipline can culminate. Discipline should go beyond an oath pretentiously recited—it is a responsibility that should be filled with utmost commitment.
Angel Mae Flores
Mary Louise Lagahit
ECHOING SILENT ACCOLADES
Highlighting the Intramurals’ significance is ensuring that athletes get the recognition they deserve.
In the heat of this year’s Intramurals opening ceremony, Technologists were finally given the show that they had been eagerly anticipating. However, when the crowds cheered for their respective colleges, there was one certain voice left unheard—The CebuTech Athletes, who were somehow quieter than usual.
In fact, during the opening remarks, an instance that left a question mark on the spectators was the sudden change of the program, wherein the University Sports Director, Dr. Nehemia Zamora, wasn’t able to give her opening speech. Instead, the host during the ceremony was the one who officially commenced the event. This may have been the last resort to ensure that the flow remains
as planned, but obviously, not the best one.
Was there a flaw during the execution? Or was it a flaw in the system all along?
Another distressing instance that occurred during the ceremony was the CebuTech Arnis Team’s performance disruption. Although it may seem like this was the way it was planned, the passing of the torch by the Premier King & Queen candidates began while the Arnis Team was still performing on stage.
“In the middle of the performance, nag-acknowledge na sa candidates ug deans,” said Vincent Caballes, a PATHFIT instructor and an Arnis coach, in distress.
“Murag backdrop ang performance tawn,” he added. Unfortunately, a few only saw this as a mistake as no one else seemed to be bothered by such a demeaning error. Their interest is fixated on something else: The
Premier King & Queen.
Admittedly, the candidates matter as much during this season, but let us not forget to whom we should highlight this event, and to never leave them feeling unrecognized or dismissed, which circles us back to what happened.
Why is it the candidates were the ones passing the torch? And not the athletes?
It is right to have the athletes light the torch, which is one of the few things that went right during the ceremony. But it’s not just the lighting that the athletes should have the opportunity to do so. They should also be the ones exposed to pass the torch. After all, the purpose of this event is to showcase their abilities, and the values that make them an athlete.
They are athletes. They are more than just standing behind a heavy crown.
Farrah Tumulak
Jacel Marielle Llemit
“
Let
OPINION
sportsmanship be the heart of the game, not a fading background long after the final whistle.
Sahaina Mae Paner Junior Feature Writer
THE GAME’S SILENT LANGUAGE
The roar of the crowd, the sweat dripping, and the adrenaline coursing through veins—these are the hallmarks of competitive sports. But beneath the surface of victory, a deeper language whispers: the language of sportsmanship. It’s a language not spoken but felt. A shared understanding that transcends the roar of the crowd and the ache of defeat.
The recent Men’s Basketball 5x5 Championship was a microcosm of this silent dialogue. A nail-biting battle, it showcased the tension between fierce ambition and the fragile spirit of fair play. The desire to win burned brightly, but it was the respect for the game and for each other that truly defined the spirit of the competition.
Winning is a powerful motivator, but it should never overshadow the core values of sportsmanship. The shared love for the game, the mutual respect for opponents, and the under -
standing that competition is a journey, not just a destination, are what truly define the spirit of sports.
It’s easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment, especially when the stakes are high. But it’s in those moments that we must remember that sports are more than just a score. They are a platform for building character, fostering teamwork, and learning valuable life lessons. This perspective underscores the importance of maintaining composure, even amidst the pressure of competition.
The players, coaches, and referees all have a role to play in maintaining this spirit. Coaches can instill in their players the importance of respect for opponents and the value of playing fair. Referees can ensure that the game is played within the rules and that any instances of unsportsmanlike conduct are addressed promptly. Players themselves must be mindful of their actions and
strive to create a positive and respectful environment on the court.
Ultimately, the true victory lies not in the score, but in how we conduct ourselves throughout the competition. Let’s strive to create a sporting culture where the pursuit of excellence is balanced with mutual respect, where the joy of the game takes precedence over the pressure to win, and where the spirit of camaraderie binds us together, regardless of the outcome.
Winning is a powerful motivator, but it should never overshadow the core values of sportsmanship. The shared love for the game, the mutual respect for opponents, and the understanding that competition is a journey, not just a destination, are what truly define the spirit of sports.
Let sportsmanship be the heart of the game; not a fading background long after the final whistle.
OPINION 12
“
Intramurals is supposed to bring students together, offering something for everyone, yet it felt like the event only catered to a narrow audience.
Isiah Jade Ligas Circulation Manager External
CONUNDRUM SETS IN SCHEDULE
The first day of Intramurals was a bag full of mixed feelings. While it was filled with a variety of activities that kept students engaged, it felt rushed, having an entire lineup of events packed into a single day. For some Technologists, this pace stirred excitement, setting high expectations for the rest of the week. Instead of a well-thought-out schedule that kept the excitement going throughout the week, we have been given a disjointed and uneven lineup.
Day 2 quickly brought disappointment, revealing a lack of organization that took away the experience. Intramurals is supposed to bring students together, offering something for everyone, yet it felt like the event only catered to a narrow audience. There was an overwhelming focus on sports, sidelining students who were hoping for a blend of athletic and cultural events. Performances add richness and inclusivity, allowing students who are not interested in athletics to still feel involved.
Sports may be the core of Intramurals, but it is not the only aspect that matters.
Organizing an event of this scale is not easy, but a basic principle of event planning is to keep a steady flow and momentum. The council had a responsibility to ensure that every day of Intramurals has something exciting or engaging to look forward to. However, this year’s scheduling felt lopsided, as if everything was either crammed into specific days or ignored entirely by others. As a result, the event has been a rollercoaster of engagement, with some days buzzing with activity and others painfully stagnant.
This uneven planning does a disservice to the students who have been looking forward to Intramurals all year. For many, it is one of the few chances to relax, socialize, and immerse themselves in campus life. Rather than create a dynamic, balanced schedule that maintains excitement across all days, it felt like the council
settled for a half-hearted approach, leaving large portions of the week feeling empty and uninspired. Students end up with free time that seems less like a break and more like a disappointment, as they wait for something meaningful to fill the gaps.
Properly distributing events across the week, and ensuring a balanced mix of activities would go a long way toward creating an event that feels inclusive and engaging. This event is supposed to be a highlight of the school year, not a test of patience as students sit through uneventful days.
If the student council wants to build trust and enthusiasm from the student body, it is important to take this feedback seriously. Students deserve an experience that brings the campus together in a way that feels cohesive, inclusive, and fun, not one that leaves them wondering why they bothered to show up at all.
4 TYPES OF SINGLES REACTING TO COUPLES
SPARKS
OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF CEBU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY - MAIN CAMPUS
LAYOUT BY DAIVEN REIGH MONFORTE