New Publication for a UP CHK Faculty Members and Alumni
The College of Human Kinetics Graduate Studies Program extends its proudest congratulations to our very own faculty members and alumni on the international publication of their book chapter, "Handball and Student Engagement in Physical Education Through Achievement and Gender-Inclusive Pedagogy." Huge kudos go to the brilliant minds behind this milestone: Lead Author Asst. Prof. Joanna V. Franquelli, MSHMS (Department of Sports Science), and Co-Authors Assoc. Prof. Alberto L. Dimarucut, DSD (Department of Physical Education) and Ms. Kim Jaramilla Rivera, PhD (Tri-College, UP Diliman).
This groundbreaking research examines how handball can enhance student engagement in physical education through inclusive, game-based, and teacher-led approaches. Drawing on rich qualitative evidence from a 13-year implementation of the Handball at School program in the Philippines spanning from 2012 to 2025, the authors explore how local educators successfully adapted international frameworks to fit the unique needs of Filipino classrooms. Their findings demonstrate that handball effectively drives holistic student development by supporting behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement through active participation, heightened motivation, and genuine enjoyment. This study provides vital, practical insights for physical educators looking to advance gender-inclusive pedagogy and elevate overall student well-being.
UP CHK Celebrates Research Excellence at the 2026 Graduate Studies Colloquium
The UP CHK Graduate Studies Research Colloquium was successfully held last May 9, 2026, at the Bulwagang Tandang Sora, carrying the theme: “Pioneering New Developments in Human Movement Science.”
The event brought together graduate students, faculty members, and researchers in an engaging exchange of ideas, innovations, and scholarly work that continue to shape the future of human movement science. Through insightful presentations and meaningful discussions, the colloquium highlighted the UP CHK community’s commitment to research excellence, collaboration, and academic advancement.
Congratulations to all presenters, organizers, and participants for making this event a success!
UP CHK Welcomes Prof. Oriol Abellán-Aynés of the University of León, Spain
Bienvenido! The University of the Philippines College of Human Kinetics (UP CHK) warmly welcomed Oriol Abellán-Aynés, Professor in the Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Activity and Sport Sciences at University of León, during his visit from March 23 to 27. Prof. Abellán-Aynés was received by members of the UP CHK Executive Board, where discussions centered on potential academic collaborations, cultural exchange initiatives, and shared perspectives on the current state of Sports Science and Physical Education in both countries.
As part of his visit, he also engaged with students through a series of lectures in Biomechanics I and Biomechanics II, sharing his expertise and fostering academic exchange. His visit was made possible through the Erasmus+ Programme, a European Union-funded initiative that supports international teaching, training, and mobility.
CHK, PSC, Inks MOA for Weightliftng Development
In the photo: PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio, CHK Dean Molly Mallari, PSI Director Pearl Managuelod, CHK Assoc Dean Ralph Ramos, Ms. Hidilyn Diaz, CHK Assist DPE Chair Edwin Barber and PSC CoS Loujaye Sonido.
The UP College of Human Kinetics and the Philippine Sports Commission PSI formalize a meaningful partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement to provide weightlifting equipment, strengthening grassroots support for weightlifting athlete development. The initiative was also supported by Ms. Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo, now a CHK lecturer in weightlifting, whose assistance helped realize this collaboration.
New Publication for a UP CHK Faculty Member
Congratulations to Asst. Prof. Ralph Ramos on the publication of his journal article, “Sport policy in the Philippines: Institutional dynamics and context conditions.”
In this work, he explores how the Philippines’ sport system has been shaped by its history, governance structures, and institutional dynamics. The article looks at how policies are formed and implemented, and how factors like funding priorities, stakeholder roles, and broader social and political contexts influence the direction of sport development in the country.
The study also highlights the continuing challenge of balancing support for elite athletes with the need to strengthen grassroots sport and create more inclusive opportunities for participation.
A valuable contribution to understanding sport policy in the Philippines—congratulations on this achievement!
You may access the Journal article here.
Farewell, Ma'am Babs
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our dear friend and dedicated educator, our College Secretary, Asst. Prof. Rachelle “Babs” Peneyra. More than a teacher, she is a mentor, a source of wisdom, and a kind presence who touched many lives with compassion and sincerity. Her passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to shaping others will always be remembered. We are grateful for the time, lessons, and memories we shared with Ma’am Babs. Her legacy will continue to live on in our hearts.
[ANNOUNCEMENT] Applications for the Diploma in Exercise and Sports Science (DESS) and the Master of Science in Human Movement Science (MSHMS) Programs are now open
CHK Inks MOA with Philippine Pickleball Federation
The University of the Philippines College of Human Kinetics (UP CHK) and the Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) have formalized a partnership to advance pickleball education and development in the country through a Memorandum of Agreement signing held last February 9, 2026 at the CHK Grandstand.
The MOA, will have both institutions collaborate in the implementation of the Pickleball in Action Module, a standardized, school-based instructional program designed to train and certify Pickleball Educators. This initiative supports high-quality sports instruction and aims to promote health, fitness and wellness through the sport of pickleball within the UP community and beyond.
You may scan the QR code or access the online form here: https://forms.gle/bdjpD4zhZWSysyhd9
UP CHK Applies Human Movement Science in Tactical Fitness Partnership with PNP SAF
The College of Human Kinetics (CHK) of the University of the Philippines Diliman has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Philippine National Police – Special Action Force (PNP SAF) on January 27, 2026, to collaborate on tactical fitness and performance training informed by human movement science.
The partnership focuses on the development of science-based fitness programs, physical fitness assessments, specialized tactical fitness courses, and research and knowledge exchange in elite tactical performance. Through this collaboration, CHK contributes its academic expertise to support professional training and performance development.
Under the MOA, the PNP SAF provides operational context relevant to physical conditioning, access to personnel for training and assessment, and logistical support. CHK, in turn, develops and delivers programs aligned with best practices in human movement science. All activities will be conducted in accordance with university policies, applicable laws, and established safety guidelines.
The collaboration also supports the PNP SAF’s participation in international events such as the UAE SWAT Challenge, held annually since 2019 at the Dubai Police’s Al Ruwayyah Training City. The competition has grown from 61 teams in 2019 to 114 teams from 48 countries in 2026. The Philippines, through the PNP SAF, has participated in 2024 and 2025 and is set to participate again in 2026.
As part of its mandate as the national university, UP engages in academic partnerships that apply research and scientific knowledge to broader professional and societal contexts, contributing to capacity building and nation building through education and research.
The UP CHK Graduate Studies Research Colloquium was successfully held last May 9, 2026, at the Bulwagang Tandang Sora, carrying the theme: “Pioneering New Developments in Human Movement Science.”
The event brought together graduate students, faculty members, and researchers in an engaging exchange of ideas, innovations, and scholarly work that continues to shape the future of human movement science. Through insightful presentations and meaningful discussions, the colloquium highlighted the UP CHK community’s commitment to research excellence, collaboration, and academic advancement.
Congratulations to all presenters, organizers, and participants for making this event a success!