“The SCUAA 1 Regional Games and the PASUC 1 Culture and Arts Festival show that excellence speaks two languages—sport and the arts. In sport, strength, teamwork, and courage are tested. In the arts, creativity, memory, and spirit are expressed. Different in form, yet united in discipline and passion.”
As the historic streets came alive in a vibrant spectacle of color, pride, and unity, University of Northern Philippines President Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna formally welcomed the participating delegations to the SCUAA–PASUC 1 Regional Games 2026, setting the tone for a celebration of athletic excellence and regional camaraderie.
Residents, tourists, and local officials filled the parade route, offering enthusiastic applause as contingents from various state universities and colleges marched in full regalia. Banners waved high above the crowd while school cheers echoed through the cobblestone streets, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. The lively procession not only showcased institutional pride and athletic spirit but also emphasized the strong collaboration between the academic community and local stakeholders in advancing youth development and regional solidarity.
This year’s regional meet drew an impressive and diverse delegation from participating state universities and colleges in Region 1. Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) fielded 370 athletes, 128 artists, 120 coaches, 52 support personnel, and 47 administrative staff. Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) sent a formidable contingent of 465 athletes alongside 202 cultural performers. Pangasinan State University (PSU) contributed 572 athletes and performers, further intensifying the level of competition and artistry.
Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) was represented by 321 athletes, 161 performers, and 143 coaches, while host institution University of Northern Philippines (UNP) showcased its strength with 400 athletes, 126 artists, and 200 members of its support team. Altogether, the gathering reflected not only the scale of the event but also the unwavering commitment of the region’s higher education institutions to excellence in sports and culture.
The program formally opened upon the delegates’ arrival at Quirino Stadium with a dignified Entrance of Colors led by the UNP ROTC Unit and the SUC-1 team flag bearers. The solemn singing of the Philippine National Anthem and an opening prayer set a tone of unity and reverence, signaling the official start of the regional celebration.
Delegations from the participating State Universities and Colleges were then formally presented by the SUC-1 Sports and Cultural Directors, showcasing the strength and diversity of the region’s student-athletes and cultural performers. A highlight of the ceremony was the ceremonial sashing of the Mr. and Ms. RCAF-1 candidates, symbolizing not only grace and poise but also the harmonious blend of culture and athletic excellence.
In his message, Dr. Cadorna underscored that hosting the regional games is both a distinct honor and a profound responsibility. He described sports and culture as powerful platforms for character formation, discipline, teamwork, and leadership—values that extend far beyond the arena and the stage, shaping students into principled and empowered individuals.
The ceremonial hoisting of institutional banners formally signified the unified participation of the State Universities and Colleges of Region I (SUC-1), led by PASUC-1 President Dr. Elbert M. Galas, President of PSU, together with Dr. Cadorna, UNP; Dr. Virgilio Julus Manzano, MMSU; Dr. Jaime T. Manuel, DMMMSU; and Dr. Mario P. Obrero, ISPSC. As each banner was raised, it stood not only as a marker of institutional pride but also as a powerful emblem of solidarity and shared purpose among Region I’s higher education institutions—collectively advancing academic excellence, sportsmanship, and cultural vitality.
The event was further strengthened by the presence and full backing of provincial leaders. Ilocos Sur Governor Jeremias “Jerry” C. Singson, represented by Ms. Fayinna Zaragoza, and Vice Governor Ryan Luis V. Singson, expressed unwavering support for the region’s academic and athletic initiatives. In their messages, they conveyed strong confidence in the youth, recognizing them as dynamic catalysts of progress and nation-building.
Vigan City Mayor Hon. Randolf V. Singson also delivered an inspiring message during the program. Meanwhile, the Municipality of Bantay was represented by Hon. Lorenzo Paiste on behalf of Mayor Hon. Samuel C. Parilla. Adding to the show of support from local leaders, Hon. Germelina S. Goulart, Mayor of Caoayan, likewise conveyed her message of encouragement to the participating athletes and artists.
A highlight of the program was the recognition of exemplary leadership and service. Plaques of appreciation were awarded to the outgoing PASUC-1 Regional Chair Dr. Jaime Manuel Jr., outgoing Regional Sports Director Dr. Paulo Jan Samson, outgoing Regional Cultural Director Dr. Rodelio Indong, and outgoing PSU Director Dr. Arlene Ken-ek in acknowledgment of their dedication and invaluable contributions to the advancement of regional collaboration.
Underscoring the event’s core values, National SCUAA 2025 Taekwondo Gold Medalist Mr. Cesar Ian Santos led the Oath of Sportsmanship, inspiring athletes to uphold integrity, discipline, and respect in competition. Complementing this was the affirmation of artistic excellence delivered by Ms. Alchea Clay Cyrus A. Leones, symbolizing the cultural sector’s commitment to creativity, honor, and excellence. Together, these moments encapsulated the collective resolve of Region I’s academic community to pursue distinction not only in performance, but in character and unity.
The stadium thundered with applause and resounding cheers as more than six thousand UNP Pathfit students took center stage for a breathtaking field demonstration. In a vibrant display of precision, discipline, and synchronized movement, the massive ensemble transformed the stadium into a living canvas of color and motion—captivating the audience and setting an electrifying tone for the regional gathering.
The highlight of the ceremony unfolded as the sports and cultural team captains of the State Universities and Colleges of Region I (SUC-1) stepped forward to light the athletic urn. The symbolic act signified not only the official start of the competitions but also the ignition of camaraderie, excellence, and an indomitable competitive spirit that now burns brightly across the region.
With great anticipation, Dr. Elbert M. Galas formally declared the SCUAA-PASUC 1 Regional Games 2026 open, drawing another wave of applause from delegates and spectators alike. As host institution, UNP demonstrated its unwavering commitment to excellence and collaboration, emphasizing the unity and enduring solidarity among Region I’s state universities and colleges.
The program culminated with closing remarks delivered by Engr. Leonor Quarte, CHED Education Supervisor, who represented Regional Director Dr. Cherrie Melanie Ancheta-Diego. In her message, she stressed the vital role of athletics and the arts in shaping well-rounded individuals and strengthening the academic community.
The opening rites stood as a vibrant celebration of sport and culture—twin pillars that mold character, cultivate discipline and leadership, and inspire the next generation of achievers to strive for excellence both on and off the stage.
