Written by Kennu Poyaoan, Zhekianah Ordonio, and Edria Sevilla | Photographs by Alex Tolyaden
BAGUIO CITY, October 14, 2026 — Physical fitness and self-discipline are important foundations for students preparing for careers in criminal justice and public safety. Beyond developing physical strength and coordination, structured physical activities can cultivate perseverance, self-control, and respect for others—qualities that contribute to responsible professional conduct. These principles were highlighted during Martial Arts Day ’26, held at the University of Baguio (UB) Cardinals Gymnasium, where students from the School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS) applied the physical skills and techniques introduced in their fitness classes.
The activity brought together SCJPS students enrolled in PATHFT1 (Physical Activities Towards Health and Fitness 1) for a day of structured martial arts training and skills application. Designed to reinforce classroom instruction, the event provided participants with opportunities to practice learned techniques, demonstrate physical competencies, and experience the discipline required in martial arts.
Under the leadership and guidance of Ma’am Cora Murphy Dogui-is, students participated in focused training routines, practiced technical movements such as katas, and performed tactical exercises. The gymnasium mats also served as the venue for supervised sparring demonstrations, during which students wearing protective equipment showcased striking and defensive techniques under the guidance of instructors and referees.
Beyond the execution of punches, kicks, and martial arts forms, the activity emphasized the values that underpin martial arts practice: discipline, respect, perseverance, and self-control. Through structured exercises and supervised demonstrations, students were given opportunities to develop coordination, concentration, physical conditioning, and awareness of responsible conduct during physical engagement.
These lessons extend beyond the training area. For aspiring criminal justice and public safety professionals, the ability to maintain composure under pressure, exercise restraint, and respect the safety and dignity of others is relevant to the responsibilities they may encounter in their future careers. Martial arts training can provide a setting in which students practice discipline and controlled physical movement, reinforcing the importance of combining physical capability with sound judgment and responsible behavior.
Organized by the UB-SCJPS Student Body, Martial Arts Day ’26 concluded with a group photo featuring faculty members, student leaders, and participants gathered on the gymnasium floor. More than a demonstration of physical techniques, the activity provided an opportunity for the SCJPS community to reinforce the value of physical development, experiential learning, and disciplined participation.
The initiative contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being, particularly Target 3.4, by promoting physical activity and fitness as components of a healthy lifestyle. It also supports SDG 4: Quality Education, particularly Target 4.4, through practical learning experiences that develop physical, personal, and transferable skills relevant to students’ academic preparation and future professional responsibilities.
Through Martial Arts Day ’26, UB-SCJPS highlighted the role of physical education in developing students who value fitness, discipline, respect, perseverance, and responsible conduct. By connecting structured physical training with the demands of their chosen field, the activity reinforced the importance of preparing future professionals who understand that physical readiness must be accompanied by self-control and sound judgment.