University News

Thousands Move as One in AEROPULSE 2026, Championing Wellness and Inclusion

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The PUP Oval transformed into a vibrant display of movement, energy, and unity as more than 5,000 students gathered for AEROPULSE 2026, a 30-minute aero marathon organized by the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) through the Department of Service Physical Education (DSPE) on June 10, 2026.

Held from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., the event served as the culminating activity for students enrolled in the Physical Activity Towards Health and Fitness (PATHFIT) 2 program. More than a fitness gathering, AEROPULSE 2026 showcased the collective commitment of the academic community to health promotion, physical literacy, social engagement, and inclusivity.

The activity was spearheaded by CHK Dean Dr. Geraldine C. Miñas and DSPE Chairperson Dr. Ferdie T. Lubis, with Instructor Gicel Roger B. Salvilla leading participants through an energetic 30-minute dance fit ness routine. The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the department’s faculty members and CHK students under the coordination and leadership of Asst. Prof. Lisa D. Camarador.

As music filled the Oval and thousands of students moved in unison, the venue became a living demonstration of the goals of the PATHFIT program. The activity aligns with CHED Memorandum Order No. 39, Series of 2021, which supports the implementation of PATHFIT in tertiary education and encourages institutions to conduct culminating activities that reinforce lifelong participation in physical activity and wellness.

According to Dr. Lubis, the initiative reflects the department’s commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond classroom instruction.

“To have this kind of culminating activity at the end of the semester as recommended by CMO (CHED Memorandum Order)—and of course SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being)—at the same time as part of the department’s initiative to create culture-related activities for students,” he said.

Dr. Lubis emphasized that the activity was designed not only to fulfill academic requirements but also to cultivate awareness of the value of physical activity among students.

“Ito ay isa sa mga tulong ng departamento bilang para sa PUP community and para ipakita sa mga bata na this not just a PATHFIT course for just compliance pero magkaroon sila ng kamalayan patungol sa Physical Fitness and importance of Physical Activity. Of course, another thing is socialization also not only for the faculty but also for the students.” He shared.

(“This is one of the department contributions to the PUP community and an opportunity to show students that PATHFIT is not merely a course for compliance. Rather, it helps them develop awareness about physical fitness and the importance of physical activity. Another important aspect is socialization—not only among faculty members but also among students.”)

He also expressed optimism about expanding similar initiatives in the future through sports, wellness, dance, recreation, and other programs that promote holistic student development.

One of the most memorable sights during AEROPULSE 2026 was the wearing of colored ribbons worn by participants according to their designated areas. Together, the colors formed a rainbow-inspired visual across the Oval in celebration of Pride Month and in support of the LGBTQIA+ community. The display symbolizes diversity, acceptance, and the institution’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every member of the community is welcomed and respected.

Beyond the physical benefits of exercise, students highlighted the event’s role in strengthening relationships and building a sense of community. For John Louie G. Projimo, a first-year student from the Diploma in Office Management Technology program, AEROPULSE provided an opportunity to connect with fellow students and faculty members while promoting an active lifestyle.

“Nagkakaroon po ng interaction between the students and the faculty tapos nagkakaroon po sila ng major activity na kasama po lahat ng students—kung baga bonding narin po ng bawat isa. In the other hand, mas nagiging physical active narin ang bawat estudyante na kasama at mas na enhance yung physical fitness ng bawat isa.” Projimo said.

(“It creates interaction between students and faculty members while giving everyone the opportunity to participate in a major activity together. In a way, it strengthens camaraderie among all participants. At the same time, students become more physically active and are able to further improve their physical fitness.”)

As thousands of students danced together under the morning sky, AEROPULSE 2026 became more than a culminating activity. It embodied the University’s core values of Integrity, Excellence, and Sense of Service by encouraging students to take responsibility for their health, demonstrating excellence through collective participation and organization, and serving the community through programs that promote holistic well-being.

The event likewise contributed to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) through the promotion of physical activity and healthy lifestyles, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through experiential learning opportunities under the PATHFIT curriculum, SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) through its visible support for diversity and inclusion during Pride Month, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through the collaborative efforts of administrators, faculty members, staff, and students.

With thousands moving as one, AEROPULSE 2026 demonstrated how physical education can serve as a powerful platform for wellness, inclusion, and community building—reinforcing the vital role of physical activity in shaping healthy, engaged, and socially responsible citizens.