Benguet State University (BSU), through its College of Human Kinetics (CHK) and in partnership with the BSU Football Club (BSUFC), hosted the 2026 Aspulan Futsal Invitational Cup – Ladies’ Open at the university Covered Court.

A flagship initiative of BSUFC since 2010 and part of CHK’s extension program, the tournament brought together 12 teams from Benguet, Baguio, Pangasinan, and Ilocos Norte, highlighting the growing competitiveness of grassroots women’s futsal in the region.

Participating teams included the Benguet Palaro Team, BSU ELS, BSU SLS, BSU Varsity A and B, the Benguet High Team, the Baguio Griffins, Sibol FC, Titas, GenZ-Alumni, Lipit FC (Pangasinan), and Amazonas (Ilocos Norte).

The event was organized in coordination with third-year Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Sciences students, who provided technical and logistical support as part of their training in sports management.

Throughout the tournament, each team showcased their skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. In the end, GenZ-Alumni emerged as the champion, followed by BSU Varsity A finishing first runner-up and Sibol FC placing second runner-up.

Individual recognitions were awarded to Regina Aliping of GenZ as Most Valuable Player, Jemayka Cher Galvez of BSU Varsity A as Best Defender, and Keriszha Antonio of GenZ as Best Goalkeeper. Amazonas received the Fairplay Award.

CHK faculty member and tournament facilitator Maria Lourdes B. Obidos, the event served as a bridge between academic excellence and grassroots sports development.

Beyond the competitive aspect, the Aspulan series maintains a strong community service presence. This year’s Invitational was held for a cause, with proceeds and efforts directed toward providing assistance to members of the BSU community in need of support.

“We have the extension program titled Sports for All, wherein we try to promote and develop sports to improve the athletic program of Benguet. It is also for a cause to help members and alumni who are in need of assistance,” Obidos stated.

Lipit-FC Pangasinan team captain Iya Mendoza expressed her gratitude, sharing the values gained through the competition.

“Natutunan po namin sportsmanship and iyong kindness at hindi rin po mawawala iyong respeto sa mga bagong nakasalamuha namin and makakatulong din po ito sa training namin,” she stated.

The Aspulan Cup highlights BSU’s continuing efforts to advance sports development, experiential learning, and community engagement through inclusive athletic programs.//PJGadang