February 12, 2026 – Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) successfully conducted a 5-day Arnis Training for Trainers for its Physical Education (PE) faculty, reinforcing the university’s commitment to cultural preservation and excellence in sports education. The training was held at the ACCESS Campus, EJC Montilla, Tacurong City, in compliance with the Executive Order issued by the University President, Dr. Samson L. Molao, mandating the integration of Arnis into the PE curriculum across all campuses.
The training was spearheaded by Grand Master Efren L. Apresto, who shared his expertise, discipline, and deep understanding of Arnis fundamentals, advanced techniques, and proper teaching methodologies. The intensive training aimed to equip PE instructors with updated knowledge, techniques, and instructional strategies in teaching Arnis, the country’s national martial art and sport. By enhancing faculty competence, the University ensures that students receive quality instruction grounded in both tradition and modern pedagogical approaches.
During the closing program, University President Samson L. Molao joined the participants and expressed his full support for the training. In his message, he emphasized the deeper purpose of education, stating: “A university must not graduate fragile excellence. A university must graduate with disciplined courage. Arnis is not about fighting. Arnis is about awareness, control, restraint, and respect for life. When a student learns Arnis, three transformations happen: They learn confidence without arrogance, they learn strength without violence, they learn power with responsibility, and that is education.” President Molao also conveyed his sincere appreciation to Grand Master Apresto, acknowledging his invaluable contribution: “Grand Master Apresto did not just teach techniques—he transmitted heritage. Because Arnis is not simply a sport…it is a Filipino philosophy: the mind moves before the hand, and the heart governs both.” Addressing the Physical Education faculty, President Molao delivered a powerful message: “From today onward, you are no longer merely instructors of Physical Education. You are now custodians of discipline. You are guardians of preparedness. You are teachers of calmness in chaos. You will stand before students who may never remember the dance steps you taught—but they will remember the confidence they gained from you for the rest of their lives.” His message resonated deeply with everyone present, underscoring that the true essence of Arnis and of education itself.
In line with the University’s broader mission, this training also contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 (Quality Education). By integrating Arnis into the Physical Education curriculum, SKSU promotes physical fitness, mental resilience, discipline, and overall well-being among students, supporting healthier lifestyles within the academic community.
