Ang UAAP. Tumitindig. Sumusulong.
The 78th Season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) officially began with an extravagant opening ceremonies hosted by the University of the Philippines (UP), Saturday, September 5 at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.
UP President Alfredo Pascual provided the opening remarks urging the communities of the different member-universities to support all of the student-athletes this season. Moreover, Pascual commends these student-athletes, who pursue excellence in both academics and sports, for their awe inspiring dedication and heart.
The opening program entitled Arkipelago then followed with the different performing groups from UP telling the story of the formation of the Philippines’ islands. The tale continued with the blossoming of the archipelago’s flora and fauna, and the arrival of the people who are tasked to take care of these resources – represented by the eight schools of the league. The formation of the archipelago symbolized the formation of the UAAP.
UP Diliman Chancellor Michael Tan, UAAP 78 President, formally opened the season, and called on the league to stand up and move forward (“Tumitindig, Sumusulong.”), which is the theme for the year. A parade of athletes from the member schools representing various sports ensued.
The opening ceremony ended with a festive dance celebration from the UP Dance Ensemble, which included the UP Filipiniana Dance Group, the UP Dance Company, the UP Streetdance Club, and the UP Varsity Pep Squad. The sounds were provided by the UP ROTC Symphonic Band, the UP Concert Chorus, the UP Tugtugang Musika Asyatika, and the UP Dancesport Society. Natasha Cabrera and Bituin Escalante also sang during the production number.
Furthermore, the overall championship in the juniors and seniors division for Season 77 wee also awarded to open the ceremonies. The University of Santo Tomas claimed their 40th plum in the seniors division, and their 14th in the juniors division.
