News

The Central Philippine Union Conference (CPUC) Sportsfest 2025 officially commenced Sunday, Nov. 16, with a cheerful opening ceremony that brought together conferences and institutions across the CPUC territory. 

This event which takes place at the gymnasium in Adventist Academy Cebu in Bulacao, Talisay City, Cebu, is a significant celebration of camaraderie. It highlights the values that the CPUC prioritizes in promoting recreation as an essential aspect of workers' lives. 

The opening ceremony began with a parade that presented each participating institution: the Central Visayan Conference (CVC), Negros Occidental Conference (NOC), Adventist Academy Cebu, and Adventist Hospital-Cebu.

Immediately after the morning devotional and the declaration of the sportsfest opening, the friendship games officially commenced. Both athletes and non-athletes participated in the competitions, emphasizing that enjoyment is prioritized in this event over winning.

The first day featured matchups across several sports, including basketball, volleyball, lawn and table tennis, alongside skillful rallies in tennis and pickleball.  As intended by the facilitators, this lineup of sports ensures broad participation, encouraging teamwork, promoting collaboration, and building friendships among participating organizations. 

Pastor James Rubrico, CPUC ministerial secretary, shared that recreation started during the Old Testament era. Theconcept of rest, play, celebration, and physical training—all components of modern recreation—were evident and accepted aspects of life found throughout the Bible.

He further expounded that the national celebrations such as the Feast of Tabernacles were mandated by God and involved communal gathering, feasting, and taking time away from daily labor —suggesting that the people also engaged in recreation.

Furthermore, Apostle Paul, suggested in 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 that athletic contests and physical training were already recognizable part of the culture and public life during the New Testament era.

It says, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable."

More enjoyable competitions, matches, and fellowship are anticipated until the event concludes on November 18.

Lyn Lucero ⎸ CPUC Communication Department