‘Pusit Games’: Fil-Am students showcase classic Pinoy street games
Pusit Games / Photo from The Skyline View
Filipino traditional games, often called Larong Pinoy, highlight creativity and resourcefulness. Simple yet engaging, games like patintero, tumbang preso and sipa require only chalk lines on the pavement, a tin can or a rattan ball—but they provide endless hours of fun.
Rooted in teamwork and strategy, these games embody the deeply ingrained bayanihan spirit of Filipino culture.
This is exactly what the Filipino Student Union (FSU) at Skyline College in San Bruno, Calif., aimed to capture. Putting a Filipino American twist on classic Pinoy street games, the FSU recently kicked off its first general meeting of the year with the “Pusit Games.”
The Jan. 29 event showcased various traditional street games commonly played in the Philippines, reimagined in the thrilling style of Netflix hit series “Squid Game.”
More than just a playful gathering, “Pusit Games” was a well-planned initiative aimed at fostering a sense of community while introducing Filipino culture to a wider audience.
According to The Skyline View, organizers put significant effort into ensuring that participants not only enjoyed themselves but also gained a deeper appreciation for these cultural traditions.
FSU President Cesar Emilio Quinto emphasized the importance of providing students with an enjoyable break from academic stress. “We wanted others to do something fun after a long day of studying,” he shared.
Moreover, Club Vice President David Christian Pumyam highlighted how the event has served as an introduction to Filipino street games, which differ from those commonly played in American schools.
At its core, FSU is dedicated to sharing and preserving Filipino heritage. Pumyam reiterated the organization’s mission, stating that its primary goal is to educate and engage those interested in Filipino culture through interactive activities and presentations.
According to Quinto, the idea for “Pusit Games” stemmed from a desire to warmly welcome students back after a year-long break. Before diving into more serious topics, they wanted to create an inclusive and lively environment that embodied the spirit of FSU.
