Written by Denmark Rey Velasco, Alexandra Tolyaden | Photographed by Shania Paliuanan, Ziggie Repasa, Adrian Changrapen, Vergel Angelo Gaygay, and Denmark Rey Velasco
BAGUIO CITY — After an incredible run at the University of Baguio’s 1st Phase College Intramurals 2025–2026, the School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS) Women’s Badminton Team triumphantly secured the First Runner-Up position. This noteworthy accomplishment is a proud testament to the players’ extraordinary talent and hard work, as demonstrated by Francine Jade Velasco, Virna Amor Ban-ngon, Jamie Rose Dizon, Rafaella Coloma, and Charmel Bless Simeon. The team, led by Coach Candice Natasha Cawilan, not only won awards but also promoted SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being by encouraging competitive sport as a means of fostering mental toughness and physical activity. Their accomplishments set a good example for the entire university community and demonstrate the commitment needed to juggle rigorous academic obligations with elite athletic commitments.
Importantly, their student officials provided the team with well-organized direction and crucial logistical support throughout their journey. Lara, Ryza, Antolin, Christian James, Martin, and Prinzest Laurenty, who were members of the SCJPS – Sports Committee, were instrumental in helping to guide the players, provide them with motivational support, manage the operational details, and make sure they were mentally and physically ready for the challenges of the event. The athletes were able to concentrate entirely on their performance because the Student Body representatives, Adrian Changrapen, Denmark Rey Velasco, Ziggie Repasa, Shania Paliuanan, andJenelyn Gene Junio, effectively handled the logistical support that was required at the same time.
This comprehensive network of student support directly aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, illustrating that collegiate success in sports requires seamless collaboration across student organizations, fostering a supportive environment that enhances overall student life. The entire team, coach, committee members, and student leaders demonstrated that with shared goals and mutual support, excellence is achievable. Their strong performance cemented their status as role models, inspiring future athletes and highlighting the power of good health and well-being achieved through committed partnerships.
Beyond the wins and losses, the SCJPS team earned admiration for their outstanding sportsmanship. In victory, they were humble; in defeat, they were gracious. They upheld the highest standards of fair play, respectfully acknowledging their opponents’ skills and the decisions of the line judges and umpires. This conduct reflects the profound values instilled by both their school and the spirit of the intramurals. Their respectful behavior and commitment to fair play contribute subtly but significantly to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.
Ultimately, the team’s success was driven by their deep-seated love of the sport of badminton. The joy and passion they exhibited every time they stepped onto the court were infectious, turning their matches into compelling displays of athletic excellence. Their silver finish is more than just a medal; it’s a powerful narrative of student-athletes balancing demanding academics with the rigor of competitive sports. The entire School of Criminal Justice celebrates the accomplishments of Velasco, Ban-ngon, Dizon, Dizon, Coloma, andSimeon, along with Coach Cawilan, for their inspiring display of skill, teamwork, and commitment.
