REFLECTIONS

Participating in Pathfit IV has been an incredibly rewarding journey, one that has not only enhanced my physical well-being but also enriched my overall perspective on health and fitness.  Joining the laro ng lahi and playing the games with my classmates and friends made it a special memory that I will remember for the rest of my life.  Playing the games made me realize and awaken my competitive spirit to beat everyone else as well as having fun while doing it. I think Ma'am Nennite Bajador for letting us experience this event and facilitating it in order for us student to strengthen our camaraderie and be closer to each other. 

The activities in PATHFIT 4 gave me nostalgia on what we, as kids used to play. The Dr. Kwak Kwak, Luksong Lubid, Langit-Lupa and Luksong Baka were some of the games I used to play. I also learned the games Pick-Up sticks, Piko, and Sungka, and their game mechanics. In addition, I fostered friendships and teamwork with my classmates during the Morning Games in May 3.

Playing these traditional games allowed me to have some fun, without being too competitive nor too attached to the concept of winning and losing. Thank you ma'am Nenitte for allowing us to have an awesome PATHFIT session, and thank you everyone for playing with me.

Engaging in PATHFIT 4 offers more than just physical activity; it's a nostalgic journey back to our childhood. These traditional games weren't just pastimes; they were vital parts of our upbringing, shaping how we interacted with others, solved problems, and built friendships.

As I revisit games like patintero and piko, I'm reminded of the simple joys of childhood—a rarity in today's digital age. These games serve as a gentle reminder to unplug, step outside, and embrace the pleasure of physical play. Participating in competitions wasn't solely about winning. What truly mattered was the enjoyment of the moment and the bonds of friendship fostered through laughter, camaraderie, and shared experiences. 

I humbly thank our beautiful teacher, Ma'am Nenite Bajador for the opportunity to reconnect with my childhood self and rediscover the pure joy of play, surrounded by friends, both old and new.

Participating in the subject 'Pathfit IV' not only allowed me to visit down memory lane, where I enjoyed fun and classic games - but gave a new meaning to how important they are in creating unforgettable moments that you will cherish as the days go by.

Had a blast with every game we played. I get to know and understand my classmates better and engage in friendly skirmishes that I will forever cherish. One of my favorite moments was playing 'Tumbang Preso', and I really laughed when Christopher mistook Gillie's slipper for his own. This will serve as a good laugh and precious moment in my college life.

Overall, Pathfit 4 with Ma'am Nennite Bajador and my classmates will be engraved forever in my heart with positive and joyful emotions. You all made me laugh so good despite me being happy, free, confused, and lonely at the same time lol.

Thank you everyone and take care 🩷

As a kid who loved outdoor games, it made me feel the nostalgia and the sense of acceptance of the inner child within me. 'PATHFIT IV' allowed me to embrace the games that I used to play when I was still a child and even until now.

I had time to laugh, to smile, to understand the games while knowing more about these cherished memories together with my classmates. These seems to be games at first but they're more than games as they valued traditional values, they fostered social interaction, by connecting us through cooperation, friendly competition, and acceptance of losses gracefully, building important life lessons. I almost seems to forget these lessons but through this journey I finally found where I used to be, in the company of people sharing memories together.

The game closest to my heart would be the Sungka as it really made me forget the time and think clearly as to my next moves to avoid conflict with my next moves, now together with Regino who seemed to be annoyed reminded me of those times. I forgot how in my childhood I would notice time flying by so fast trying to rematch my brother who I always seem to lose to.

Finally, this memory made possible by Ma’am Nennite Bajador, together with my classmates will be one of the core memories I will have in my college days. It made my Thursdays fun and worth looking forward to while in class as we made a lot of memories together.

Thank you for sharing this together with me everyone.

Playing traditional games in this subject takes me on a journey back in time, where I can relive some of the most cherished moments of my childhood. These games can bring forth a range of emotions and feelings, from the joy of winning to the disappointment of losing, and from the excitement of competition to the satisfaction of camaraderie.

Playing traditional games is also a great way to connect with others and build relationships. When I play these games, I can bond with my friends, classmates, and even strangers over a shared experience. I can learn about others, their personalities, and their interests, and in turn, they can learn about me.

Moreover, traditional games often have a rich history and cultural significance, which can be fascinating to explore. By playing these games, I can learn more about the customs and traditions of my own culture or those of other cultures around the world. Overall, playing traditional games is a fun and engaging way to connect with others, learn about different cultures, and create lasting memories that I can cherish for years to come.

Reflecting on our pathfit four course, gave me a glimpse of how fun and exciting the activities were. From easy games such as jackstone, to physically demanding games like patintero, gave us an opportunity to showcase our inner child once again in our early adult life. Not only this made me reflect on the pathfit course and reminisce of the bonding moments among with classmates, but also, in essence, looking back at the things that I have achieved since I was a mere child playing these games, up until now. The course also provided us another opportunity to also accentuate our collaboration skills and teamwork, and somehow increase our friendly competitiveness, because after all, we are just trying to have fun. The pathfit course and the laro ng lahi event is something that is often overlooked on how it benefits us as a society. It gives us unity, friendly competition, happiness, expression, and overall, a great memory that one should cherish. People should not let their current state, such as being natamad or nakapoy, overlook the best of the benefits of these types of experiences produce. 

haha slayy si anteh!!

 The PATHFIT 4 journey has been like taking a happy trip back to my childhood, where I played traditional Filipino games with friends. As a Computer Science student, exploring these games brought back so many memories of carefree days spent playing luksong lubid, tumbang preso, sungka, and patintero. The best part was the Laro ng Lahi Challenge, where teams competed in these games. It felt like reliving those fun times from my childhood. It made me realize how important it is to preserve our cultural traditions.

Laro ng Lahi isn't just about games; it's a part of who we are as Filipinos. I'm determined to share these traditions with future generations. In a world that's always changing, holding onto our traditions keeps us rooted and reminds us of what's important. Thanks to PATHFIT 4 and the Laro ng Lahi Challenge, I've rediscovered a piece of my identity and I want to keep it alive for years to come. 

Taking up PATHFIT IV, which is the Laro ng Lahi, feels like taking a stroll down memory lane, where every game unlocks a flood of childhood memories. Each game is like a forgotten treasure chest, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a sprinkle of friendly competition. I can't help but reminisce about the countless hours spent playing these traditional Filipino games with friends and family. 

From the exhilarating rush of "Tumbang Preso" to the strategic maneuvers of "Patintero," each game held its own special place in our hearts. It was fascinating to witness how these seemingly simple games carried profound cultural significance, connecting us to our roots and reinforcing the importance of preserving our traditions. Moreover, the experience highlighted the value of physical activity beyond its fitness benefits, emphasizing the joy and social interaction inherent in play. As we engaged in games like jackstone, holen, and pitik bulag, laughter filled the air, reminding us of the simple pleasures found in shared experiences. In a world dominated by screens and virtual realities, playing these traditional games feels like coming home to a warm embrace. It's a chance to relive those carefree days of childhood innocence and carry the spirit of "Laro ng Lahi" with me wherever life may lead.

There’s always a chance for everything, or so they say. For me, this was my opportunity to experience "Childhood" firsthand, much like my classmates cherished in their memories of laro ng lahi. Growing up, I didn't have the privilege of playing outside and engaging in these traditional Filipino games due to a lack of playmates; my childhood was spent surrounded by adults. Despite this, I always yearned to partake in these activities. The excitement and nostalgia my classmates displayed when reminiscing about these games sparked a deep curiosity within me. So, when I learned that we would be playing these games as part of our Physical Education curriculum, I felt immense gratitude towards PATHFIT IV for providing me with the chance to experience them firsthand.

Expressing the whirlwind of emotions I felt during these games, especially piko, luksong lubid, Chinese garter, limbo rock, and langit-lupa, would be a challenge for this reflection. Simply put, engaging in these activities made me feel connected to my culture. I finally felt like I belonged because I was able to relate to the joys and challenges of these traditional games. This experience holds significant value for me as it has equipped me with the knowledge and firsthand experience necessary to share these cherished traditions with future generations, particularly my nephews whom I hope to introduce to these games one day.

Moreover, the experience of playing these games was both worthwhile and unique. It served as a refreshing breather from our technology-dominated lives, especially as we navigate through ICT courses and spend extensive time with computers, cellphones, and other gadgets. Engaging in these traditional games not only allowed us to "touch some grass" but also provided a profound connection to our history. This experience has left an indelible mark on me, for it was my chance—perhaps my only chance—to relive aspects of childhood that I had missed out on. I am forever grateful for this opportunity.

PATHFIT 4 wasn't just about revisiting childhood; it was a chance to rediscover the magic of "laro ng lahi" games through fresh eyes. While I had experience with these games before, the class provided a structured environment to truly understand and appreciate their depth. 

Sure, there was a wave of nostalgia as we played piko, luksong lubid, and Chinese garter. But more than just reliving memories, I found myself analyzing the games strategically.  We weren't just playing; we were dissecting the skills required, the teamwork involved, and the problem-solving each game demanded. This newfound perspective transformed these activities into a delightful blend of tradition and challenge.

The most surprising aspect, however, was the sense of community that blossomed during gameplay. The camaraderie as we cheered each other on, strategized together, and even laughed at our occasional stumbles fostered a strong connection amongst us.  It highlighted the social aspect of these games, a dimension I hadn't fully grasped before. 

PATHFIT 4 went beyond the physical benefits of exercise. It instilled a deeper appreciation for our cultural heritage.  These games, passed down through generations, served as a window into the lives of those who came before us.  Understanding the history and traditions woven into each game sparked a newfound respect for our roots.

Overall, PATHFIT 4 was an enriching experience. It wasn't just about reliving childhood; it was about rediscovering the depth and value of laro ng lahi games.  This newfound appreciation will stay with me, and I'm eager to share it with others, ensuring these traditions continue to thrive. 

Amidst the heat of the sun, enthusiasm prevails. The attendance of students that day became evident. This event not only encourages students to be physically active but in a way that revives the spirit of our traditional games. Particularly for us ICT students, it is beneficial for us to be distracted for a while and reconnect with ourselves through the enjoyment of these activities. It's also nostalgic to engage in games I used to excel at as a messy kid. As it rekindles the spirit of competitiveness in me, especially in physical aspects, I appreciate this rediscovery. One activity that particularly caught my interest was the "Chinese Garter" game, from the previous sessions. It impressed me by reviving my athletic abilities, especially in the vertical aspect, which I often forget. As I went through all the games, I was reminded of the various versions of each type of traditional game. One of which I enjoyed was "Tintin Piko", if I'm not mistaken. We used to play it before with a different game layout, but I was still able to execute it with the same rules.

As for the afternoon competition, I was thrilled by the outcomes we achieved. I didn't expect us to come as close as we did to third place. Our only aim was to enjoy the game regardless of the result, but we would have certainly performed even better if we had focused on winning. However, in the end, what matters is the fun we had at the event, having a third-place award is just a bonus. Furthermore, I realized that physical competence isn't really necessary in this context of laro ng lahi, in fact those imperfections and flaws of others, and awkward moments gives the essence of this game which is to cause fun. The more you engage yourself the more you get lost, so the deeper the adrenaline is. Laro ng lahi is indeed fun, and can be therapeutic.

Engaging in the traditional Filipino games of "Laro ng Lahi" felt like stepping into a time machine, whisking me back to carefree days of childhood innocence and boundless energy. Amidst the backdrop of laughter and spirited competition, I found myself surrounded by friends and classmates, each face beaming with excitement and anticipation. As we navigated through the various challenges together, whether it was hopping over imaginary thorns in luksong tinik or strategizing our moves in a game of patintero, the boundaries between competitors blurred, giving way to a profound sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

Beyond the thrill of victory or the disappointment of defeat, the day's events were a celebration of our shared heritage and the simple joys of human connection. From the exhilarating rush of adrenaline during a well-executed play to the comforting pat on the back after a close defeat, each moment served as a reminder of our common humanity. As we laughed, cheered, and supported each other throughout the day, it became clear that "Laro ng Lahi" was not just about the games—it was about the bonds we formed and the memories we created together, breathing life into the timeless traditions that define us as Filipinos. 

As an introvert who spent a good chunk of my childhood days in the comfort of my own room, I didn't have much opportunities to play the traditional games most Filipino children grew up playing. Every PATHFIT 4 session, there would be at least a few games that I didn't have any idea how to play, so one of my fondest memories this semester is asking my friends to orient me about these games and having them readily explain the mechanics to me. Although I can't say I've become the best at these games in the course of a few months, what I can guarantee is that simply being able to play them made Thursdays worth looking forward to. 

I couldn't have thought of a better way to wrap up the PATHFIT 4 subect than holding the culminating activity. Since I already had some familiarity with the games we had to play, it was definitely much more enjoyable for me, and I had fun watching the tasks in my card be accomplished one by one. I particularly enjoyed playing Chinese garter and pitik bulag — those were the games that really made me feel like the activity was less of a task we had to comply to and more of a simple, fun day at school with my friends.

All in all, the culminating activity left a deep impact within me in the sense that I felt like I was getting back in touch with my roots. Not only was I able to dabble in these traditional activities, but I was also able to strengthen my relationship with physical fitness all the while socializing with various people whom I know share the same sentiments as me. 

I have never been the type of person that would actively engage in sports. Well, I may have played a couple of sports back then but that was just to pass time with friends. So, when we had games every PATHFIT 4 on Thursdays, it reminded me of times where I’d bask out in the sun with classmates playing “lagsanay” every break time and lunch, where I had fun. I have always watched "laro ng lahi" games but I have never really participated in any of them except for some so I didn’t really know how to play them.

As I learned how to play these games, I realized a couple of things. These games weren’t just mere games; they were also lessons for people, important life skills for people to learn. These games made us make makeshifts of anything so that we could play the games, teaching us resourcefulness, problem-solving, and adaptability. Participating in these games also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie. They provide a platform for interaction, cooperation, and friendly competition, strengthening social bonds and having mutual respect whether it was victory or defeat.

Since the start of my college life as a Computer Science student, I spent most of my time sitting all day or lying on my bed, either working in front of my laptop or using my phone. I barely have the time to exercise or do any physical activity, except when I go to school, which, whether I like it or not, requires me to walk to arrive at the designated classroom for each subject. 

Through the subject PATHFIT 4, I was encouraged to engage in physical activities again. At first, I was internally complaining because I was not fond of moving my body in the morning, especially since the class usually starts at 8:00 AM, but I had no choice. If I want to pass the subject, I must attend and do the activities, and it is also my responsibility as a student. However, during the first face-to-face class when we played traditional games, my perspective and impression changed. Playing various traditional games made me reminisce about the fun memories I experienced when I was little.  The games were tiring, but they were fun and memorable. It made me look forward to participating in the succeeding classes. The most memorable was the "Laro ng Lahi." We were supposed to finish at least eight traditional games and have our cards stamped after, but I had so much fun despite the hot weather that I had to finish all ten games. 

After doing the food log and physical activity log, I realized that I'd been living a very sedentary lifestyle. However, I'm glad that I achieved two of my fitness goals — to improve my cardiovascular endurance (average to above average) and muscular strength/endurance (good to very good). My goal to improve my flexibility has not been achieved yet and is still in progress, but I'm happy there's also an improvement. Overall, the subject was enjoyable, knowledgeable, and worth reminiscing. 

I always looked forward to our PATHFIT 4 classes every Thursday where we got to play the traditional Filipino games we call "laro ng lahi." These games not only provided us with fun and enjoyment, but they also taught us valuable skills and lessons that have stayed with me to this day. Games like Pityaw, a hand-eye coordination challenge of throwing and hitting a stick with another stick, helped develop our dexterity and concentration. The hopping game of Piko, on the other hand, challenged our balance and agility, while Patintero, a chasing and dodging game, taught us the importance of teamwork and strategic thinking. Perhaps one of the most memorable was Sungka, the mancala-style game that honed our mathematical and problem-solving abilities. Each of these "laro ng lahi" offered unique opportunities to learn and grow, instilling in us a deep appreciation for our cultural heritage while preparing us for the challenges of the modern world.

Participating in traditional Filipino games like Pityaw, Piko, Patintero, and Sungka during PATHFIT 4 class has been a truly enriching experience. I've developed a newfound appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, with these games serving as a tangible link to the country's vibrant past. Beyond just being fun to play, these activities have also helped me hone a variety of physical and cognitive skills - from hand-eye coordination and agility to strategic thinking and problem-solving. I've come to realize that these "laro ng lahi" are not mere child's play, but rather repositories of cultural wisdom and integral components of a well-rounded physical education curriculum. Moving forward, I will carry these lessons with me, not only valuing the importance of preserving such traditions but also recognizing the myriad benefits they can provide in developing young minds and bodies.

Participating in our Physical Education class's exploration of folk games was unexpectedly refreshing. Initially, I admit, I was a bit skeptical about how relevant or engaging these traditional games would be in today's modern world. However, as soon as we delved into it, I realized just how wrong my assumptions were.

The physical benefits of participating in these games were undeniable. While they may not involve the high-intensity workouts of modern sports, they offered a unique form of exercise that targeted different muscle groups and skills. Whether it was the agility required for patintero or the hand-eye coordination needed for jackstone, each game challenged us in new and fun ways. It was a reminder that fitness doesn't have to mean grueling gym sessions or intense cardio; sometimes, the most effective workouts are the ones that feel like play.

Perhaps most importantly, these games served as a reminder of the value of simplicity and playfulness. In a world often consumed by technology and fast-paced living, taking a step back to enjoy these timeless pastimes was a breath of fresh air. It reminded me that fun and fitness need not be complicated or high-tech.

Overall, our exploration of Folk Games in Physical Education class was not just a break from the ordinary; it was a reminiscing of our culture, a test of our physicaity, and a reminder of the joy found in simple pleasures. I leave the class with a newfound appreciation for the games of our culture.

Engaging in the traditional Filipino games of "Laro ng Lahi" brought forth a wave of excitement and nostalgia, reintroducing me to a diverse array of activities I hadn't experienced since childhood. As part of the group representing our section, I found myself immersed in a vibrant atmosphere where laughter and competition intertwined, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and brotherhood among my peers. Despite the spirited rivalry, our bond only grew stronger as we navigated through various challenges, eventually clinching the third spot among the 13 participating groups. Reflecting on the day's events, I realized not only the joy of victory but also the profound impact it had on my physical well-being, leaving me with a renewed sense of vitality and satisfaction.

Thursday's Pathfit class has become a highlight thanks to "laro ng lahi," traditional Filipino games. It's a chance to relive the pure joy of childhood. Each week, I find myself eagerly awaiting the opportunity to step onto the grassy field. It's not just about the physical activity; these time-honored games foster a sense of camaraderie as we compete and collaborate.

Laro ng lahi goes beyond a nostalgic pastime. They provide a well-rounded workout, keeping us physically fit. But their benefits extend far deeper. The strategic elements woven into these games challenge our minds, demanding planning, focus, and quick thinking. The laughter and teamwork that fill the air during these playful competitions not only strengthen our bonds with classmates but also cultivate a connection to our heritage.

Participating in laro ng lahi has instilled a deeper appreciation for Filipino traditions. These games, passed down through generations, offer a window into our cultural identity. The potential of laro ng lahi to nurture not just our bodies and minds but also our sense of belonging is profound. These cherished memories, along with the valuable lessons learned, will undoubtedly stay with me long after graduation.

Honestly, I was a little disappointed when I learned that our class would not be playing another well-known sport for our PATHFIT 4. I was expecting that we would play a different type of sport this semester, like volleyball or basketball, since we already had badminton last semester. I have always known what "laro ng lahi" games are because these games are usually what we play during our College Fundays, and I tend to get bored playing them. 

Surprisingly, when we started the games facilitated by the first group from our class and later progressed to the third group—our very own facilitated games—my view on "laro ng lahi" gradually shifted. Playing games like Piko, Tumbang Preso, and Patintero made me feel like I was 10 years younger. It brought back a lot of memories from my childhood, some of which I had even forgotten and only recalled when I played the games again. It felt as if I were a child again, playing mindlessly with my friends, not worrying about anything except a nap my mother wanted me to have and that I had skipped over for tiring yet fun traditional games. Every week, I looked forward to each Thursday to experience another enjoyable time with my classmates. It was not until we had our final culminating activity that I realized our PATHFIT days were over, and it was the last time we would play these games as part of our school activities. 

PATHFIT 4 not only brought back good memories but also reminded me of the importance of playing games that require physical effort as a form of tiring yet fun exercise. Other than that, it served as my escape in my daily routine dominated by digital distractions. Reflecting on the moments shared with my classmates, and our teacher Ma'am Nenitte, I am filled with gratitude, knowing that these experiences will be forever treasured.