TSU-SSS spearheads first Chinese Garter Competition, advocates for queer athletes' rights

Pride Parade. Members of Safe Safe Society (SSS) stood in solidarity as the recently concluded One Day Larosu come to an end, on Feb. 08, TSU Lucinda Lab School Court.

Report by Rainier Acosta | Photo by Joaquin Umali and Rainier Acosta

Tarlac State University-Safe Space Society (TSU-SSS) successfully held its inaugural ODL: One Day Larosu, a Chinese garter competition, on Saturday, February 8, at the Laboratory School Covered Court, Lucinda Campus.

The competition fostered camaraderie and inclusivity among students through traditional Filipino games, featuring three variations of Chinese Garter: Jump Rope, Triangle, and Vintage Chinese Garter. A total of 25 participants joined the competition, divided into four teams, took part in the event.

Team Otw was hailed as the overall champion, while Team Latina secured second place. Team No Name and Team Pookiena followed in third and fourth place, respectively.

Beyond the competition, the event sought to emphasize that athleticism is driven by passion and dedication rather than sex, gender, or identity, according to the organizers.

Moreover, TSU-SSS underscored the significance of reviving traditional games as a tribute to the inner child while advocating for the rights of queer athletes who often face challenges and discrimination in sports.

“So many queer athletes ang nade-deprived of their rights, especially when it comes to sports. They have been degraded, hindi nabibigyan ng pansin, and even through this event, nagkakaroon ng awareness na queer athletes should be given more opportunities internationally and locally,” said Sean Calimquim, TSU-SSS Chief of Staff and head organizer of the event.

Meanwhile, Calimquim also assured that this would not be the last event from TSU-SSS, encouraging students to participate in future activities and stand up for what they believe is right and love.

The winners were awarded cash prizes, certificates, and ribbons in recognition for their outstanding performance and sportsmanship throughout the competition.