As the entire Ateneo community readies itself for the climax of the opening of the year-long celebration of Ateneo’s Centennial Jubilee, the Physical Education Department of the School of Education held its annual PEiesta on July 29, Sunday.
The event was divided into three parts: Laro ng Lahi, Boodle Fight and the Festival Dance Competition. Affirming the theme of Citizenship, the first segment invited all PE sections to participate and compete in Filipino indigenous and folk games such as patintero, juego de anillo, kadang-kadang, palo sebo and many others. Each winning class was awarded with a prize. Through these games, PE department chair Manuela Quimson believes that students will be given an opportunity to relive their childhood days or remind them of folk games that used to define growing up in the Philippines – games that seem to be unattractive to players hooked to current online and video alternatives.
A fiesta atmosphere was surely experienced, as the classes came together in a boodle-fight style dinner for lunch. Students feasted on the different cuisines this side of the country is known for. Sharing what they brought for the day was a fun way to emphasize the value of sharing and generosity, traits that reflect the Atenean value of magis.
While Laro ng Lahi focused on the students’ agility, the Festival Dance Competition was a showcase of the different festivals from around the archipelago. The various PE classes in their colorful costumes and creative props danced their way to give spectators a peek why truly it’s more fun in the Philippines. Earl Pasilan, coordinator for the Center for Performing and Visual Arts (CPVA) Dance Troupe said this activity is not only a celebration of Filipino culture but also a way for students to feel proud about their being Filipino –something that every Atenean should do.
Day 3 of the opening of the Ateneo Centennial Jubilee ended with the awarding of the best performing PE students and classes.
