Integrating Traditional Games of Southeast Asian Countries into the Bachelor of Physical Education (BPEd) Program

This study explored how to include traditional Southeast Asian sports in the physical education curriculum of Philippine tertiary institutions that provide the Bachelor of Physical Education (BPEd) program in order to maintain cultural heritage, encourage diversity, and enhance the curriculum. The study addressed three questions: how BPEd instructors can prepare to teach traditional games of Southeast Asian countries, the current proficiency level of BPEd teachers about these traditional games in the region, and the proposal of having a new major course that could improve their knowledge and abilities about these games. Data were collected from twenty (20) physical education instructors who are graduates of BPEd and MAPEH programs from three state universities in Region 1, Philippines, using purposive random sampling. Six main themes emerged from the thematic analysis: fostering ongoing cultural exchange, promoting ASEAN readiness and inclusivity, integrating ASEAN games into the curriculum, fostering professional development through workshops and seminars, and preserving indigenous culture through education. The results highlight the value of teachers’ professional development, curriculum revision to incorporate traditional games, and encouraging students to comprehend other cultures within the region. By encouraging cultural diversity, cooperation, innovation, and global competency, the study emphasizes how traditional games of Southeast Asian countries can enhance the existing physical education curriculum. Moreover, the study also highlights the importance of culturally relevant pedagogy in attaining long-term educational results and adds to the larger conversation on timely curricular innovations in various programs in higher education institutions.