While University of the Philippines put on a lavish display at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to launch the 87th season of the UAAP, Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) and TV partner GMA took a different approach, celebrating the 100th season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) with a more understated ceremony at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.
Beauty in simplicity was the core of the Grand Old League’s centennial celebration, with each of its 10 member schools proudly represented.
The ceremony honored a star athlete from each institution, highlighting the rich history and tradition of the NCAA.
Senator Sonny Angara, a product of the University of the Philippines, graced the event as the NCAA paid tribute to its accomplished alumni.
The league honored athletes who have brought pride to their respective schools and contributed to Philippine sports, including Baser Amer (San Beda, Basketball, represented by Yukien Andrada), Mark Harry A. Diones (José Rizal University, Track & Field), RJ Jazul (Letran, Basketball), Adrian Nocum (Mapúa, Basketball), Allyn Bulanadi (San Sebastian, Basketball), Louie Ramirez (Perpetual Help, Volleyball), Ryan Jacolo (CSB, Table Tennis), Regine Arocha (Arellano, Volleyball), Sidney Onwubere (Emilio Aguinaldo, Basketball), and CJ Perez (Lyceum, Basketball).
Perez, a World Cuper, an Asian Games gold medalist, and Gilas Pilipinas player, led the Pirates to an undefeated 18-game sweep in the elimination round during his collegiate career, though they were ultimately defeated by San Beda in the Finals in NCAA Seasons 93 and 94.
Standing at 6-foot-2, Perez is a two-time PBA Champion, two-time PBA All-Star, and earned Finals MVP and Best Player of the Conference honors during the Commissioner’s Cup in the 2023-2024 season.
Amer, a 28th SEA Games champion, was also highlighted.
Amer, who has been a part of San Beda since high school, played a crucial role in their four-peat NCAA championship run from Season 87 to Season 91. He was also a champion in his junior years, contributing to the Red Cubs’ 17th NCAA Juniors title.
Arocha was the only female athlete on the list.
Arocha, currently competing in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) with Choco Mucho, earned MVP honors in Season 93 and Season 94 and was part of a three-peat championship team from Season 92 to Season 94.
Ramirez is another standout, recognized for his four consecutive championships in men’s volleyball and is currently a member of the Alas Pilipinas Men.
Track and field record holder Mark Harry Diones from JRU is celebrated for his achievements, including four gold medals in Season 90 and breaking the Philippine triple jump record at the 2017 SEA Games. He also earned silvers in the triple jump at the SEA Games in 2017, 2019, 2021, and a bronze in 2023.
Sidney Onwuebre from EAC, a Mythical Team member in Season 93 and a two-time PBA champion in 2021 and 2022-23, currently plays for the NorthPort Batang Pier.
Ryan Jacolo from Saint Benilderepresented the Philippines at the SEA Games in 2015 and 2017. During his time at CSB, he earned five gold medals and five MVP awards over his five-season residency.
Allyn Bulandi from San Sebastian was a former Gilas Pilipinas cadet and was part of the Mythical Five in Season 95.
Jazul was honored for his achievements in basketball, including being part of the original Gilas team, a PBA championship in the 2013 Commissioner’s Cup. Jazul also played a pivotal role in ending Letran Squires’ 16-year title drought in 2001.
Adrian Nocum from Mapua University, who played for the San Juan Knights in the MPBL, was the second-leading scorer for the Cardinals in Season 98.
In his address, NCAA Season 100 policy board president Atty. Roberto Laurel emphasized the league’s mission to inspire excellence both on and off the court.
“The NCAA Sigulo Uno is more than just a competition,” Laurel stated. “It’s an opportunity to push our limits, show our dedication, and inspire one another to achieve greatness. At the same time, it’s a venue to hold our virtues, build character, and embody principles that support a fulfilling life and become citizens built on moral discipline.”
Laurel also expressed his hope for the future, declaring, “Let NCAA Season 100 be a testament to our collective will to excel and our commitment to promoting fairness, camaraderie, and inspiring legacies.”
The event’s solemn and dignified atmosphere was balanced by vibrant performances from SB19’s Justin de Dios and P-Pop group G22.
