Isabela State University-Roxas Campus has proposed a transformative initiative known as the SHAPE-C for One ISU project to Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera III, Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education. This proposal underwent meticulous review by CHED personnel alongside evaluators from the Department of Tourism, in the framework of the Community Sports and Wellness Institutional Grant. The culmination of this effort was a presentation conducted via Zoom on July 10, 2024.

Dr. Rosalyn L. Bautista, the Campus Administrator and primary project leader, spearheaded the presentation. She was supported by a distinguished team including Dr. Janet P. Cunanan, co-project leader and Research and Development Director; Mrs. Mary Jane O Lim, Sports Director; Mrs. Krystal Gay T. So, Socio-cultural Director; Dr. Audelon R. Benito, Director for Public Relations and External Linkages; Mr. Joey C. Cereno, Director for Planning and Management Information System; Mr. Noel A. Palapuz, College of Education R&D Coordinator; and Ms. Edna M. Valdez, among others. Dr. Mark Gapultos, representing Roxas Municipal Mayor Hon. Jonathan C. Calderon, also lent his support.

The ambitious “Sports, Health, and Physical Engagement Center for Optimal Novel Experience at ISU (SHAPE-C for One ISU)” project aims to revitalize sports facilities at ISUR. Central to its enhancements are a solar-powered water tank and panels, a gymnasium stage with dressing rooms, an audiotech area, indoor floor improvements, an air-conditioned gymnasium, a fitness-gym extension, and a sports equipment storage area. Beyond physical upgrades, the project intends to integrate sports into daily school life, enhancing athletic performance while safeguarding students’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Moreover, it seeks to foster traits like teamwork, self-confidence, and resilience among students.

Dr. Bautista emphasized that the project’s benefits extend beyond the university to encompass the broader community, a viewpoint shared by Dr. Gapultos, who highlighted its potential to significantly bolster tourism in Roxas.

The total cost of the project is Php 28,550,000.00, with funding contributions from multiple sources: Php 5,000,000.00 from LGU Roxas, Php 20,000,000.00 from CHED, and Php 3,550,000.00 from ISUR. This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, notably SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals).

In essence, the SHAPE-C for One ISU project represents a pivotal step towards advancing community engagement through sports, fostering holistic wellness, and enhancing infrastructure that supports gender equity and sports tourism nationwide.