On 14 September 2023, the Ateneo de Davao University Physical Education Department and Path-Fit 3 Aikido Class were visited by Japanese Aikido Practitioners and members of Aikikai Davao Philippines, Inc. for a class observation and Aikido Demonstration. The Japanese delegation was headed by Mr. Tadashi Nishiyama, 6th Dan, who started the Aikikai Davao Philippines, Inc. (formerly Seiwakai Davao Philippines, Inc.) in 1995. The other Japanese practitioners were Makoto Hayashi, 6th Dan; Susumo Nakao, 6th Dan; Tatsuhito Takahashi, 7th Dan; and Akihiko Hamano, 3rd Dan.
Ateneo de Davao University is the first and only University outside Japan recognized by the Aikikai Foundation as a University offering Aikido as a Physical Education (PE) Course. This recognition was made possible through the initiative of Mr. Nishiyama. Ms. Nancy Joyno-Pavia, PE 3 Aikido Instructor, visited Aikikai Hombu Dojo and personally met Moriteru Ueshiba Doshu (Head of the Aikikai Foundation and grandson of the Founder of Aikido) last 07 February 2020 to present the Certificate of Appreciation for the Foundation’s recognition.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when Ateneo de Davao University shifted to an Online Learning Modality, Moriteru Ueshiba Doshu sent a Letter of Recognition for the Commencement of the PE Aikido Online Class on 22 October 2020 and provided learning materials such as Handbook and Instructional Videos to help crafting the PE Aikido Online Classes.
On the same day of the visit of the Japanese delegates, Ms. Nancy Joyno-Pavia was awarded her Shodan Certificate (First Level Black Belt Rank) after taking her Shodan examination at Ikebukuro Sports Center on 15 July 2023. The award was presented by Mr. Tadashi Nishiyama, 6th Dan, and Mr. Tatsuhito Takahashi, 7th Dan, as the representative from the Hombu Dojo. The ceremony was witnessed by her students, colleagues, and co-practitioners from the Aikikai Davao Philippines, Inc.
After the class observation and demonstration, the Japanese delegates, assisted by Mr. Jade Halilio, Chair of the PE Department, visited the School of Education (SOE) Dean’s Office. They were greeted by Dr. Maria Teresa Isidor, SOE Assistant Dean.
Article and Photos by Ms. Nancy Pavia (School of Education – Physical Education Department)
