The University of Santo Tomas, host of this year’s UAAP festivities, officially unveiled the league’s theme song on Wednesday, setting the tone for a season anchored on unity, resilience, and purpose.
Just as it did when it last hosted the league in Season 79 back in 2016, UST proudly presented the winner of the UAAP Season 88 Theme Song Writing Competition: assistant professor Louell Baldoza of the UST Institute of Religion.
His spirited anthem, “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” was hailed for its uplifting lyrics and dynamic sound that perfectly capture the essence of the UAAP.
Baldoza emerged victorious in the competition held last March 27, besting 12 other entries to earn the honor of composing the official anthem for the league’s 88th season, which officially kicks off in mid-September.
The anthem carries stirring lines such as “for courage blooms where kindness lies” and “hands will clash yet souls align,” matching its energetic and percussive sound with themes of excellence and togetherness.
“There were two judges who wanted sana a Filipino [anthem], but after deliberation, they really wanted the song ‘Strength in Motion, Hope in Action’ because of the text that is very Thomasian in spirit. It is very positive, it is very inspiring,” said Maria Alexandra Chua, UST Conservatory of Music dean and Season 88 committee head for theme song.
Rounding out the top three were Thomasian alumnus Eric Advincula’s “Posible ang Lahat” and College of Education assistant professor John Valeroso’s “Di Aatras.”
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Adding star power to the unveiling was UST product Kean Cipriano, vocalist of pop-rock band Callalily, who performed Baldoza’s piece live before UAAP executives and media partners at the Dr. Robert Sy Grand Ballroom of the UST Paredes Building.
“Twenty years na ako sa industriya na ito, pero masasabi ko na ito yung pinaka-kinabahan yata ako na performance at kanta na kailangan ko i-interpret. More than the song kasi, it represents a lot of people and milestones. It encompasses everything,” said Cipriano, who is also a songwriter, actor, director, and musician.
“It’s a special opportunity for me to be here and to deliver the message ng kanta na ito kasi 20 years na nga ako sa industriya na ito, exactly 2005 pumasok ako ng UST. This is a full circle moment for me,” he added.
The unveiling also built momentum for what UST promises will be an unforgettable opening weekend. The university will officially launch Season 88 with a grand opening ceremony on Friday, September 19, at the UST Grandstand and Open Field, aiming to recreate the festive spirit of Paskuhan and the iconic Welcome Walk.
The festivities begin with a Eucharistic celebration at 2:00 PM, followed by the main program at 6:00 PM. Fr. Rodel Cansancio, director of the Institute of Physical Education and Athletics, said UST intends to raise the bar after its successful Season 79 hosting.
“We are planning a jam-packed opening weekend here in UST with ceremonies on Friday and basketball games on Saturday and Sunday. One can expect a festive atmosphere with vibes similar to Paskuhan and other iconic UST traditions — all designed to give the UAAP community a taste of Thomasian pride and spirit,” Fr. Cansancio said.
Highlights of the ceremony will include the athletes’ parade, the oath of sportsmanship, the lighting of the UAAP cauldron, and a slate of “stunning performances,” including a drone display, fireworks show, and a concert featuring a still-to-be-announced top local artist.
Organizers expect a crowd of 25,000 to 30,000, with Thomasian students, alumni, and stakeholders invited. Each of the eight member schools will also send up to 1,000 delegates, including 200 officials and athletes.
In case of inclement weather, the opening ceremony will be moved to Monday, September 22, according to Season 88 program head Rev. Fr. Jeffrey Aytona and Cansancio.
