Written by Wendy Baloran, Leemar Placido, and Jelisa Valdez
BAGUIO CITY – Students from the School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS) demonstrated exceptional academic excellence at the Academic Olympics 2025, securing the Second Overall Champion title. The university-wide competition brought together students from various programs to engage in intellectually demanding activities designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and scholastic achievement. SCJPS participants displayed discipline, preparedness, and outstanding performance throughout the event.
One of the highlights of the Academic Olympics was the Video Awareness Campaign, in which the SCJPS team composed of Alseiah A. Haluber, Princess Kyle A. Navales, Amanda Danielle S. Bartolome, and Kyle Jaize N. Suguitan emerged as Champions. Their entry focused on social advocacy and student leadership, translating complex societal issues into a meaningful and engaging audiovisual presentation. The project combined compelling storytelling with impactful messaging, earning high praise from both judges and fellow participants. “We wanted to create an output that speaks to our community and redeem the department after last year’s 1st runner-up finish,” one team member shared.
The campaign reflected SCJPS’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By addressing socially relevant issues, the team aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education), demonstrating the value of learning experiences that cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills. Their work also embodied SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), highlighting how collaboration, teamwork, and shared responsibility can generate impactful results. Through this effort, SCJPS emphasized the role of students as socially responsible leaders capable of driving meaningful change.
Another standout performance came from Zeri Grace Dampulas, who earned Second Place in the Extemporaneous Speech Competition. Speaking on spontaneous topics with confidence and analytical precision, Dampulas exemplified the rigorous preparation SCJPS students undergo. Her achievement reinforced SDG 4, illustrating how structured academic training equips students with the skills needed for professional and civic excellence.
The Academic Olympics also fostered collaboration and camaraderie among students across departments. SCJPS faculty expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments, noting that events like these provide opportunities for learners to apply knowledge, strengthen leadership skills, and gain confidence. Such experiences align with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), offering all students equal opportunities to compete, excel, and gain recognition for their talents, regardless of background.
SCJPS’s success reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to transformative education grounded in discipline, professionalism, and community engagement. The school continuously develops programs that cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society, particularly in law enforcement, justice, and public safety fields.
As the Academic Olympics concluded, SCJPS students’ achievements stood as a testament to dedication, collaboration, and perseverance. Their performance not only highlighted individual and team talent but also inspired the wider student body, showcasing that excellence is attainable through preparation, teamwork, and commitment to purpose. SCJPS remains steadfast in its mission to develop future leaders guided by integrity, knowledge, and service.
