Published August 23, 2024 by Christopher Lord T. Tulauan
Louise Jessica Andam, an exceptional incoming 3rd-year BS Accounting Information System student at CSU-Andrews, has once again proven her prowess in Arnis by securing her place in the prestigious 2024 National Philippines ROTC Games. Competing in the NCR and Luzon Leg held at Cavite State University Indang Campus from July 27 to August, Andam earned a silver medal in the Women’s Combative Padded Stick Featherweight Division and a bronze medal in the Live Stick Featherweight Division, showcasing her unwavering dedication and skill.
Having the privilege of coaching Andam alongside Mr. Randolph Macababbad, our Sports Coordinator at CSU-Andrews, I witnessed firsthand her determination and resilience in the face of tough competition. In the finals of the padded stick division, she faced a formidable opponent in NCR native Bobelle Abels. Though she narrowly missed the gold, her silver medal secured her a spot in the upcoming national stage.
"When both of my coaches said the gold and silver medalists will qualify for nationals, I was shocked to the point of asking fellow arnisadors if that was true. I was shocked and in disbelief when they confirmed it," Andam shared, reflecting on her surprise and excitement.
This isn't Andam's first success in the ROTC Games. Last year, during the ROTC Games 2023 Luzon Leg, she clinched the gold medal in the Padded Stick Featherweight Division and a silver medal in the Anyo or Creative Form event, solidifying her position as a top contender. Her impressive performance continued at the 2023 National Championship, where she took home the silver medal in the Padded Stick Featherweight Division, proving her ability to compete at the highest levels.
With the 2024 Philippine ROTC Games National Championship fast approaching—scheduled from August 18 to 24 at Indang, Cavite, under the theme "Husay ng ROTC, Husay ng Kabataan"- Andam is more determined than ever. "Even though there are many tougher opponents in the Nationals compared here, I will still train harder than I have ever been to prove myself there," she said, fully committed to giving her all on the national stage.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Andam has developed a newfound confidence and pride in representing our university and region. The upcoming competition will not only test her skills but also provide opportunities to connect with fellow ROTC cadets from across the country, further enriching her experience as a student-athlete.
None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our CSU-Andrews administration. I would like to extend my deepest thanks to our Campus Executive Officer, Ramon Henry Peregrino Toto Obispo Kanapi, as well as to our Campus Administrative Director, Sir Terence Tejada, Campus Financial Affairs Director, Atty. Carla Sumigad, and Campus Academic Affairs Director, Dr. Pauline Grace P. Casil-Batang. Their constant encouragement and support have been instrumental in helping Andam and other student-athletes achieve success and strive for greatness at the national level.