In a nod to the Philippines’ classic games, the Montessori De Sagrada Familia Elementary Department (MDSF) recently engaged Sagradans with the “Laro ng Lahi,” a traditional take on Sports Festival on the third day of the school’s foundation week festivities, Dec. 13.
According to Ms. Maria Jesusa Mangulabnan, MAPEH supervisor, promoting traditional sports in the Sagradan community is a way to preserve Filipino traditions, instill values like teamwork and respect, and strengthen community bonds.
“Beyond the games, we aim to reintroduce these Filipino classics to today’s generation to allow them to experience the games that their parents enjoyed in their childhood,” Ms. Mangulabnan shared.
Meanwhile, Khiyan Klein Batu, a standout student-athlete from The Sagradan Squires, reflected on the synergy between age-old games and contemporary sports.
“These traditional games provide a window into the fundamentals. Look at just how modern sports have traced their origins in these very games,” he remarked.
Tripping down memory lane, Mr. Melchor Cruz demonstrated how to play Tiyakad, while other teachers gamely attempted Kadang Kadang. Additional games included Culliot, reminiscent of tug-of-war, and Karerang Talon, a medley of hopscotch, sack races, and garter games.
The Blue-neckerchief squad from grades four to six emerged triumphant in the Upper-Grade School division, outpacing the yellow and red teams. Meanwhile, the Yellow team secured victory in the lower-grade category.
All winners were rewarded with a “victory bag,” brimming with nostalgic Filipino-childhood-infused treats and toys such as Jackstones, Mik-Mik, Lumpiang Shanghai, and Haw-Haw.
Written by: Angelaine Martin Asuncion
Captured by: Simone Anastasia Casaje, Megan Edrea Ladao (The Sagradan Jr.) and Ma. Cristina Perez