February 24, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte – The opening ceremony of the SCUAA-PASUC 2025 Meet unfolded with a grand spectacle transforming the Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium into a kaleidoscope of colors and cheers. Performed by the Physical Education students of MMSU, the light show with synchronized events was the highlight of the night, marking the grand opening of the highly anticipated event.

The gathering commenced with a parade of all State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) with contingents from DMMMSU-Stingers, ISPSC-Panthers, PSU-Golden Lions, UNP-Sharks, and MMSU-Stallions. Leading the pack of dedicated UNP coaches, trainers, faculty, and staff is Dr. Erwin Cadorna, President of the University of Northern Philippines (UNP), along with top management officials including VP Albert Tejero, Vice President for Finance and Administration, Faculty Regent Dr. Aldrin Jaramilla, and Student Regent Noriel Jay Paino.

Mariano Marcos State University pulled off a festive opening program from the well-orchestrated entrance of colors, and team banners to singing of hymns and praises.

The formal presentation of athletes and artists was conducted by the respective directors of sports and cultural events. Dr. Chasen Almazan, Director for Cultural and Arts of UNP introduced the delegation with their resounding yell.  Adding to the festive atmosphere was the sashing of Mr. and Ms. SCUAA 2025, with UNP’s pride, Ms. Genelly Anne Ramos and Mr. Duncan Osoteo, representing the institution.

Incoming MMSU President Dr. Virgilio Julius Manzano, Jr., delivered the opening remarks, warmly welcoming all the delegates. “This event is a competition and at the same time a celebration of unity,” he said. He likewise emphasized that each delegate must draw strength from each other.

The hoisting of banners followed, led by Mr. and Ms. SCUAA 2024, as all university flags stood tall against the clear sky, symbolizing unity and strength.

Hon. Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Governor of Ilocos Norte, graced the event as the guest speaker. He extended a heartfelt welcome to all SUC officials, athletes, and artists. “The most important thing is to respect your opponent, respect the referee and respect the game,” he advised, underscoring the importance of sportsmanship and discipline.

The ceremony continued with the Oath of Sporting Spirit led by Ms. Janella Denise Ballesteros, a SCUAA National Games Athlete in Swimming from MMSU, and the Oath of Artistic Industry by Ms. Cassie Margarett Medina, a PASUC National Culture & Arts Festival artist in Kundiman from MMSU.

Soon after, the delegates witnessed the lighting of the Athletic Urn, a symbolic gesture led by the Cultural and Sports Captains of the different SUCs. UNP was represented by Cultural Captain Ejen Glenn Torda and Sports Captain John Jasper Andres.

Finally, the iconic words “Let the games begin!” was declared by Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., DMMMSU & PASUC-1 President, marking the official start of the SCUAA and PASUC 2025 which set the audience ablaze with excitement.

In closing, Dr. Christine  Ferrer, CHED RO1 Director and ISPSC OIC-President, expressed a resounding message to promote sports excellence and camaraderie with an inspiring reminder: “The goal is not just to win but to push ourselves and others to do our best while supporting everyone involved.”

The opening ceremony marked the beginning of a thrilling week of sports battle, creativity and camaraderie.

This year’s edition of the SCUAA-PASUC 2025 Meet is hosted by Mariano Marcos State University and will be home to 517 student artists, student-athletes, coaches, and trainers for the next four days.

With the flames of competition burning bright, UNP stands ready to battle for victory, honor, and the spirit of unity in the SCUAA-1 and PASUC-1 2025.

Article by Ade John Gestole, Photos by Joel Tipon.