Writer: Beca May P. Palitayan (OIC Dean, CCJE)
BAGUIO CITY | November 13, 2026 — Some homecomings are more meaningful than others. For Police Master Sergeant (PMSg) Jenny Mike Valdez Anekang, returning to Baguio Central University (BCU) was more than an invitation to speak at an event. It was an opportunity to reconnect with the institution that helped shape her journey from a Criminology student to a dedicated member of the Philippine National Police.
A proud 2011 Bachelor of Science in Criminology alumna of the BCU College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), PMSg Anekang served as the guest speaker during the opening ceremony of the 2026 BCU College Intramurals on November 13 at the BCU Gymnasium.
Addressing the gathering of athletes and muses from the University’s six colleges, she began her message with a heartfelt recollection of her student years.
“19 years ago, I was like the freshman here today looking for exciting activities. Fast forward, I was in my fourth year as a CCJE student, wearing the same uniform worn by the interns during our fourth year—that maroon uniform,” she recalled.
Seeing the students in the gymnasium brought back memories of her own university experience. She shared how seeing BCU students in different places, including streets and police offices, made her proud of what the University continues to accomplish.
“You make this ate (big sister) proud. Really, I am very proud of what BCU can showcase now, and I am forever grateful because I graduated here,” she expressed.
Her words resonated beyond a simple expression of gratitude. They reflected the lasting connection between an alumnus and the institution that became part of her professional foundation. From wearing the maroon uniform as a student to serving in the police force as the Chief of the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) of Tuba Municipal Police Station, PMSg Anekang embodies the journey of a BCU graduate whose education has translated into public service.
Rising Like an Eagle
Anchored on the theme, “Where Passion Meets Purpose, We Soar Toward Excellence,” the 2026 College Intramurals celebrated more than athletic competition. It highlighted the values of resilience, discipline, teamwork, and unity—qualities that PMSg Anekang illustrated through the symbolism of the eagle.
Drawing inspiration from one of the University’s most recognizable symbols, she encouraged students to emulate the eagle’s ability to soar above storms, maintain its vision, and undergo renewal in the face of adversity.
She reminded the participants that challenges in sports, academics, and everyday life should not be reasons to retreat but opportunities to become stronger, wiser, and better.
Like the eagle that remains focused despite distractions, she encouraged students to keep their eyes on their goals—not merely to win competitions but to improve themselves, build meaningful friendships, and develop discipline and teamwork.
She also emphasized that growth requires effort, sacrifice, and the willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone. Every competition, she explained, presents an opportunity for personal development and self-improvement.
More importantly, she underscored that while an eagle may soar alone, people achieve greater things when they rise together.
“Intramurals is not just about individual excellence—it is about unity, sportsmanship, and supporting one another,” she emphasized, reminding students that winning or losing should never outweigh the importance of respect, camaraderie, and uplifting one another.
Her message culminated in a call for the BCU community to embrace every challenge with courage, face every competition with determination, and celebrate every achievement with unity.
A Legacy Beyond the Classroom
The opening ceremony formally commenced with the assembly and entrance of athletes and muses representing the six colleges: College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM), College of Nursing and School of Midwifery (CONSOM), College of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (CTELA), College of Business Administration (CBA), College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), and College of Engineering (COE).
The BCU Chamber Choir led the invocation, singing of the Philippine National Anthem, and BCU Hymn, while the BCU Combative Team presented the welcome PALABAS. Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Karl Matthieu Rillera, BCU Culture and Arts Coordinator, followed by the presentation of athletes by Ms. Chloe Nasungan, RCrim, OIC-Athletics Director.
The program also featured performances from the BCU Dance Troupe and BPED students. Adding significance to the opening rites, Mr. Larstephen Cañedo, silver medalist in the 2026 IFMA Muaythai World Championship in Thailand, led the lighting of the symbolic urn, while Ms. Julie Anne Ogoc, a three-time PRISA silver medalist, administered the Oath of Sportsmanship.
The ceremony culminated in the declaration and formal opening of the 2026 College Intramurals by Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera, University President, represented by BCU Marketing Officer Mr. Karl Matthieu B. Rillera.
Beyond the excitement of the games and the spirit of competition, PMSg Anekang’s homecoming offered a meaningful reminder of what BCU graduates can become. Her journey demonstrates that the University’s influence does not end at graduation. Rather, it continues through the values, knowledge, and sense of responsibility that its graduates carry into their professions and communities.
For the CCJE students who now wear the same maroon uniform she once wore, her story is a reminder that their present experiences are only the beginning of a much larger journey.
One day, they, too, may return to the University—not as students searching for opportunities, but as professionals who have made a difference and can inspire those who follow.
From the maroon uniform to the uniform of public service, PMSg Anekanang’s journey reflects the enduring legacy of BCU CCJE: shaping graduates who do not simply pursue excellence but carry it into the service of others.
As the 2026 College Intramurals officially begins, the message remains clear: rise above challenges, remain focused on purpose, and soar together toward excellence.
The event supports Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by highlighting the transformative role of quality education in developing competent, responsible, and service-oriented graduates.
It also advances Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by emphasizing the importance of producing ethical, competent, and accountable law enforcement professionals who uphold justice, strengthen public institutions, and serve communities with integrity.