By Mikee Natinga Norico

Congratulations Engr. Marc Hermel G. Agriam, Director of the Office of Sports and Athletics, for representing Central Philippine University at the 2025 National Sports Leaders Congress held from May 6 to 8 at Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Binondo, Manila.

Central Philippine University (CPU) took part in a pivotal gathering of national sports leaders as Engr. Marc Hermel G. Agriam, Director of the Office of Sports and Athletics, represented the university during the 2025 National Sports Leaders Congress held from May 6 to 8, 2025, at Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Binondo, Manila.

Attended by approximately 180 to 200 participants, the congress brought together 8 to 10 sports leaders from each region, representing both private higher education institutions (PHEIs) and state universities and colleges (SUCs) from across the country. Also present were CHED regional directors, underscoring the nationwide effort to advance tertiary sports, promote sports tourism, and support sustainable long-term athlete development.

Engr. Agriam expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to connect with fellow athletic directors from across the country. “The experience was very enlightening,” he shared. “I was able to learn best practices from other institutions and understand how different sectors—public and private—implement their sports programs. It also helped extend our network of sports leaders, which will be beneficial for future collaborations.”

Organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the 3rd Annual Sports Leaders Congress aimed to cultivate innovation, collaboration, and sustainability among sports leaders in higher education. Through workshops, panel discussions, and planning sessions, delegates explored strategies for grassroots talent identification, regional project planning, and integrating sports tourism.

Engr. Marc Hermel G. Agriam, Director of the Office of Sports and Athletics (1st from left), poses for a group photo together with Athletic Directors from Western Visayas and NIR during the 2025 National Sports Gala Night.

A highlight of the event was a video message from CHED Chairperson Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” de Vera III, who was on official business in Tokyo. Dr. de Vera recounted CHED’s transformative journey in elevating collegiate athletics—from legislative milestones such as Republic Act 11180 and policy issuances like CMO 8 and CMO 26 to capacity-building programs, grants, and international collaborations. He emphasized the vital role of sports in shaping national identity and character and called for stronger efforts toward establishing national tertiary games.

“As we reflect on these achievements, we are reminded that sports is not only about competition. It is a powerful tool for nation-building, character development, community empowerment, and forging partnerships at the local, regional, and national levels. The policies we have put in place lay the groundwork for our continued, united efforts in advancing sports development. Our mission remains clear: we must sustain the gains, recognize and confront emerging challenges, and continue building a sports system that uplifts the interests of every Filipino student-athlete. Therefore, I call on everyone here today to work together to strengthen the role of sports in education, in developing future leaders, and in cultivating national pride—pride in the fact that Filipinos can excel in sports competition,” CHED Chairperson Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” de Vera III.

For CPU, Agriam’s participation reinforced the university’s commitment to aligning its athletics programs with national development goals. “Being present at this congress signifies our willingness to take part in CHED’s vision for the future of Philippine sports. It secures CPU’s place in future national discussions and ensures that our voice contributes to the direction of tertiary sports in the country,” Engr. Agriam noted.

Key sessions included discussions on the economic and social impact of sports tourism, the design and planning of regional sports tourism projects, and the development of long-term athlete pathways. On the final day, delegates presented their proposed regional programs focused on community sports and wellness tourism, culminating in an awarding and recognition ceremony.

The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and direction for the country’s sports leaders. With Engr. Agriam’s representation, CPU continues to affirm its role as an institution that not only nurtures athletes but also champions sports as a tool for education, development, and nation-building.