Paws and Pace: CASS marks 41-year milestone with a fun run

by Jemylene Lico


ILIGAN CITY, January 25, 2025. In celebration of the 41st anniversary of the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) at MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), the college hosted the highly anticipated “CASS in Motion: 41st Anniversary Fun Run.” The event, open to the public, welcomed participants from all walks of life, including students, faculty, staff, the general public, and even their furry friends.


The event kicked off at an early 4 AM, with opening remarks delivered by CASS Dean Marie Joy Banawa. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, emphasizing the importance of community engagement. The Department of Physical Education led a warm-up session to energize the participants before they hit the course. Participants could choose between two categories: a 5 km run or a 7 km run, with both individual and pet-friendly options available. Both categories started at MSU-IIT Park, with turning points at Tatay’s Grill Restaurant for the 5 km run and Mandulog Bridge for the 7 km run. The enthusiasm was palpable as runners laced up their shoes and prepared for the challenge ahead.


Safety was a top priority, with first aiders from the MSU-IIT Center for Resilience Student Emergency Resilience Division (MCR-SERD) stationed along the route. Additionally, security personnel ensured that all participants felt safe throughout the program.


The event was supported by local partners Lahutay, a brand dedicated to enhancing the running experience for athletes, and Amlan Purified Water, which provided hydration for the runners. The fun run concluded at 8:00 AM with closing remarks from CASS' very own assistant dean, Professor Sittie Pasandalan.


Voices from the Finish Line


The fun run was more than just a race, it was a platform for stories of perseverance, joy, and community. For Kyle Leong, a third-year BA History student, the 5km individual race marked her return to running after a two-month hiatus. “I really loved running after two months of being inactive. It’s also my first time participating in a fun run hosted by my university,” she shared.


Alumna Bonavie Castillon from the College of Education completed the 5km race alongside her Siberian Husky, Cheska. Despite the challenges posed by the warm climate, Castillon rated the experience a perfect 10/10. “Although Cheska’s condition as a husky in a hot climate wasn’t great, I made sure to give her rest and water after we finished. All in all, I’m glad we participated,” she said.


Alfredo Andales Jr., who ran the 7km race with his Great Dane, Luna, also rated his experience a 10/10. “Maganda po yung experience ko po, lalo na’t may aso. Yun ang pinakamagandang experience ko,” he shared. Running with Luna made the experience unforgettable, and the duo’s efforts paid off as they won first place in the 7km with-pet category.


In the 7km individual female category, Apple Jane Padual, a third-year Community Development student from Taguluan Community College, emerged victorious. “If it wasn’t for my cousin, who’s a student of MSU-IIT, I wouldn’t know that there is something like this. I didn’t expect to win,” she said. A two-year running enthusiast, Padual attributed her success to perseverance and was thrilled to make new friends at the university.


Professional runner Elbren Neri from Tangub City, who has been competing for 16 years, clinched first place in the 5km individual male category. His brother, Ramil, secured second place in the same race. Neri praised the event’s organization, saying, “I was amazed at how CASS hosted the activity so well. The working committee ensured every runner was taken care of—something not every event like this achieves.” He also commended the snacks, describing them as “lami jud kaayu.” Reflecting on his success, he added, “With perseverance, you’ll always reach your destination.”


The “CASS in Motion” fun run was more than just a sporting event; it was a celebration of unity, perseverance, and the shared commitment to health and wellness. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts of the CASS faculty, staff, and partners, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience for all participants.


As CASS continues to celebrate its milestones, the success of the 41st Anniversary Fun Run stands as a testament to the vibrant spirit of its community, where every step taken is a stride toward unity and excellence.