Text by Charmaine A. Lingdas
Photos by Jericho Paolo L. Mabansag
“Ang champion, bumabangon kahit pa natalo, hindi dahil malakas siya, kundi dahil may dahilan siya para bumangon,” said Asst. Prof. Lenita Otadoy of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), Department of Physical Education (DPE), encouraging members of the UP Manila community to persevere through challenges, adopt healthier lifestyles, and strengthen their commitment to public service.
She delivered the message during the University of the Philippines Manila’s flag-raising ceremony on July 7, 2026 hosted by the CAS Department of Physical Education, which carried the theme “Bangon, Galaw, Lingkod: Pagsisimula ng Linggo ng Malusog at Masigla.“
Drawing from nearly three decades as an educator and her experience representing the Philippines in international fencing competitions, Asst. Prof. Otadoy reflected on how the theme has shaped both her athletic and professional journey. She described “Bangon” as the mindset of a champion who continues moving forward despite setbacks. For “Galaw,” she stressed that staying healthy does not require intense exercise but consistent movement and discipline in daily habits, encouraging faculty, staff, and students to incorporate simple practices such as stretching during work hours, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking to colleagues’ offices, and making healthier food and beverage choices. Reflecting on “Lingkod,” she said the greatest reward in her career has not been the medals she earned but the opportunity to mentor students and inspire others through her experiences.
Asst. Prof. Otadoy concluded by reminding the community that age should never be a barrier to staying active. “As we grow older, we should become even more conscious of our health,” she said, urging everyone to continue to rise, move, and serve for the benefit of the university and the communities they serve.
A decorated athlete, longtime fencing coach, and recipient of the Gawad Chancellor Award for Outstanding Athlete and the Outstanding Faculty Award for Teaching, Asst. Prof. Otadoy was recognized during the 2026 UP System’s Paglilingkod at Pasidungog sa Bayan for her national and international achievements.
A message from CAS Dean Ma. Teresa de Guzman, delivered by Associate Dean for Planning and Development Assoc. Prof. Jay Dalet, reinforced the ceremony’s theme by encouraging the UP Manila community to remain resilient in the face of challenges, prioritize physical, mental, and social well-being, and serve others with dedication. The dean also recognized the Department of Physical Education for promoting discipline, teamwork, and healthy living while encouraging the community to begin each week with renewed energy, collaboration, and compassion.
Meanwhile, Vice Chancellor for Administration Joanna Patricia Cañal commended the Department of Physical Education for integrating wellness into university life through its regular exercise sessions before university events, saying these initiatives have energized the campus community.
Cañal also announced the upcoming “Push On UP” Instructional Music Video Contest, which will invite colleges, institutes, offices, and units to produce instructional videos promoting the university’s wellness campaign. Winning entries will be recognized during the Non-Teaching Personnel Summit and will receive cash prizes.
She also shared updates on CAS campus improvement projects, including the installation of a new LED wall and the continued development of student facilities, assuring the community that more infrastructure upgrades are underway.
As the UP Manila community begins another academic year, the ceremony reaffirmed that resilience, wellness, and service remain essential to building a healthier and stronger university.
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