By Mariela Angella Oladive
Delegates from all 16 campuses of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System gathered at the Western Visayas Campus in Barangay Bito-on, Jaro from June 9 to 12 for UGNAYAN 2025.
The four-day event showcased not only athletic talent but also a shift toward inclusive and participatory engagement.
While sports events such as basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and Laro ng Lahi remained central to the program, this year’s edition introduced campus journalism as a key component, allowing student journalists to actively cover and shape the event’s narrative.
In a press conference held June 10, PSHS Executive Director Dr. Ronnalee N. Orteza emphasized the significance of this development.
“Previously, we focused mainly on the sportsfest and other competitions. This year, our campus journalists are not only here to compete—they’re also helping document the experience and tell its story,” she said.
She also highlighted the importance of cultivating intellectual excellence alongside collaboration, sportsmanship, and integrity through the event’s activities.
“When we first conceptualized UGNAYAN, we saw it as an avenue for our students to collaborate with one another. As we develop them to be future scientists, mathematicians, and engineers, we also want them to become holistic individuals—good collaborators who uphold sportsmanship, teamwork, and integrity,” Dr. Orteza said.
Coinciding with International Pride Month, the event included a Gender and Development seminar to promote awareness and discussion on gender equality and inclusivity in the Pisay community.
Dr. Orteza said this reflects the PSHS System’s continuing efforts to foster a more inclusive environment.
The event opened with a message from DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., who reminded students that while competitiveness is part of the Pisay spirit, “UGNAYAN is more than just a display of skill or strength—it is a celebration of connection, a coming together of minds and hearts.”
Also announced during the week was the ratification of the Expanded PSHS System Act by Congress on June 9.
The bill, now awaiting the president’s signature, aims to broaden access to quality science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education across the country, particularly in underserved areas.
The event concluded with the awarding of winners and the announcement of the next host campus.
