Gordon College Celebrates 26th Founding Anniversary with Successful FUNdation Run 2025
Gordon College launched its 26th Founding Anniversary festivities through FUNdation Run 2025, which took place on February 23rd.
Gordon College Faculty Association (GCFAS), in partnership with Gordon College Alumni Association Inc. (GCAAI), successfully organized the event as many students, faculty members, alumni, and community members attended the celebration.
Among the distinguished guests present were Hon. Sarah Lugerna Lipumano-Garcia, Olongapo City Councilor; Dr. Imelda D.P. Soriano, College President; Ms. Agnes L. Melo, GCFAS President; and Mr. Joseph Angelo B. Pusing, GCAAI President.
They joined GCFAS and GCAAI officers, college officials, administrative staff, faculty, students, alumni, and numerous college supporters in making the event a resounding success.
Jeian Espiritu emerged as the winner in the Boys Student Category, completing the race in an impressive 10 minutes and 44 seconds.
“I was motivated to run by my teammates in the Gordon College athletics program and my girlfriend,” Espiritu shared. “Winning feels great but also adds pressure for future years.”
In the women’s Student Category, Susie May Mistica Ariño took first place with a time of 14 minutes and 43 seconds.
Ariño credited her partner’s encouragement and her focus on mental health for her success. “It started when my partner encouraged me to run,” Ariño explained.
“While running, I realized I wanted more than just a casual run for the sake of my mental health. I started joining his training plans until he gifted me a running watch.”
Furthermore, Nicole Bernal Marcial, an alumna of Gordon College, won the Alumni Category with a time of 14 minutes and 32 seconds.
“The FUNdation Run isn’t just about promoting fitness and health—it’s a way to celebrate and commemorate Gordon College’s 26th founding anniversary,” Marcial said.
“As an alumnus, I wanted to be part of this special occasion.”
He also emphasized the importance of community and the joy of running for his participation.
The winners also offered advice to aspiring runners.
Espiritu encouraged them to persevere even when facing challenges.
Meanwhile, Ariño stressed the importance of preparation and a winner’swinner’s mindset.
Lastly, Marcial advised runners to enjoy the process and find their motivation. “The hardest part of joining fun runs or any running event is finding the motivation to start. But once you understand why you’re doing it and learn to love the experience, everything else follows, ” he said.
He added, “One foot in front of the other, and always be proud of yourself for taking that step.”
The FUNdation Run 2025 served as a fitting start to Gordon College’s 26th Founding Anniversary, as it brought together the college community and promoted health and wellness.
: Princess Alliyah Danday | News Correspondent
: John Christia Rocero | Broadcaster
