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The Northwestern Panay Mission hosted the 4th Central Philippine Union Conference Physical Fitness Fellowship, which brought together leaders and staff from various Adventist institutions in the Western Visayas region, including the team from CPUC.

Held at the covered court in Brgy. Tinigaw, Kalibo, Aklan, from Aug. 26-28, 2024, the event cultivated camaraderie and physical well-being through various sports and team-building activities.

Participants from CPUC, West Visayan Conference, Negros Occidental Conference, Northwestern Panay Mission, and Romblon Mission engaged in friendly competitions across lawn tennis, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and teambuilding activities.

The event kicked off with a short parade within the basketball court's premises. Delegates then entered according to their respective missions or conferences while Pastor Von John Sanchez, the CPUC Youth Ministries/AMiCUS director and facilitator of the event, presented them.

Several directors, including Pastor Ephraim Reyno, NPM president, and Pastor Eliezer 'Joer' Barlizo Jr., the CPUC president, welcomed everyone into the social gathering.

As soon as the official opening of the 2024 Physical Fitness Fellowship was declared, sports competitions then began. Team members took turns joining the game without considering who was the best candidate for each game.

"The emphasis was on participation and fellowship, not skill level," Mrs. Felie Marye Diola, a CPUC accounting staff, said. "Everyone had a chance to play and enjoy a break from their daily work routines."

The event, Diola said, accentuated the importance of employee engagement and team building, especially in a demanding work environment.

Furthermore, Mrs. Adventh Joy M. Cabulay, Hope Channel Central Philippines scriptwriter, shared her impression of the sports fellowship, saying, "It's heartwarming to see the players laugh over a foul shot instead of looking grim and guilty."

While a competitive spirit motivated players to strive for victory, the overruling theme of fellowship and camaraderie prevailed. This bond was further strengthened during shared meals, which the hosting NPM team generously provided.

During these times, participants engaged in lively conversations and laughter over faults or errors, such as losing to an opponent serving an ace or missing final shots.

In an interview, Pastor Barlizo said, "Team outings offer numerous benefits for both employees and the organizations they serve."

"Shared experiences outside the confines of the workplace contribute to improved morale, reinforcing a sense of belongingness among team members," Pastor Barlizo continued.

In addition, Mrs.Jerly Abao, the CPUC administrative assistant to the executive secretary, shared her thoughts and said, "This kind of event encourages open communication, breaks down barriers in a formal work environment, and promotes stronger connections between colleagues."

"Physical activity, coupled with social interaction, serves as an effective stress reducer, contributing to the overall well-being of employees," Abao added.

Moreover, Mr. Engelberg Ibarra, video producer of Hope Channel Central Philippines, said, "When we employees feel valued and connected, as reinforced through fellowships like this, we are more likely to engage and be more productive in our work, benefiting the organization as a whole."

The 2024 CPUC Physical Fitness Fellowship served as a motivating event for a more extensive gathering in the coming years.

By Lyn Lucero, CPUC Communication Department