First-ever IXS Palaro: A celebration of culture and camaraderie

The spirit of fun and friendly competition filled the College Covered Courts last 14 February 2025, as 29 International Exchange Students (IXS) came together for the first-ever IXS Pocket Event: Palaro. Running from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, the pocket event showcased Filipino street games, fostering cultural exchange and camaraderie among participants.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome, setting the stage for an evening of excitement. To break the ice, participants engaged in a lively round of Pinoy Henyo, a classic guessing game that brought laughter and energy to the courts.

Following the icebreaker, the students played Piko, the Filipino version of hopscotch, testing their balance and agility. The competitive spirit heightened with Patintero, where teams strategized to outmaneuver their opponents in this beloved childhood game. The event culminated with Panyo ni San Pedro, a thrilling relay game that required speed and teamwork to secure victory.

After the intense yet exhilarating matches, the winning team was awarded a selection of delicious Filipino snacks, a well-deserved treat for their efforts. All participants capped off the night by enjoying a snack of cheese donuts, reflecting on the memorable experience of playing and learning about Filipino street games.

The first-ever Palaro aimed to provide an opportunity for international students to immerse themselves in Filipino culture while strengthening friendships with local as well as international students through playing classic FIlipino games. The event was not only a celebration of heritage but also demonstrated how games can foster meaningful connections.