Laoag, Ilocos Norte — The State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA-1) Regional Games and Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC-1) Culture & Arts Festival officially opened with a vibrant ceremony at Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium, Laoag, Ilocos Norte, on February 24, 2025. The events, hosted by Mariano Marcos State University, will run from February 24 to 28, 2025.

The program commenced at 4:30 pm, during which the SUC-1 Sports and Cultural Directors presented the delegates. Dr. Paulo Jan Samson, Director for Sports, presented the DMMMSU delegate, comprising 428 sports delegates (329 players and 99 coaches), 105 cultural participants (74 performers and 31 coaches), as well as support teams including 10 medical personnel, 15 documentation staff, 7 support staff, 20 drivers, and 25 members of the food committee and preparation team. Additionally, 30 university officials led by President Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., joined the Stingers on the first day.

Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., incoming 8th MMSU President, welcomed the spectators and participants, highlighting the spirit of unity as symbolized by the windmill, the logo used for the 2025 SCUAA and PASUC 1 events.

The Hoisting of Banners for PASUC-1 and Institutional Banners showcased pride, unity, and camaraderie, with Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., DMMMSU, and PASUC-1 President, leading the ceremony alongside SUC-1 Presidents, Sports and Cultural Directors, and Mr. & Ms. SCUAA-1 candidates.

After the Hoisting of Banners, former SUC-1 Presidents were given tribute. Dr. Dexter R. Buted, former PASUC-1 President and former President of Pangasinan State University; and Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, outgoing President of Mariano Marcos State University; Dr. Erwin Cadorna, former PASUC-1 President and President of University of Northern Philippines; and Dr. Prima Fe R. Franco, former OIC President of MMSU were recognized for their leadership and integrity and their contributions in sports and arts and culture development of Region-1.

The crowd was inspired by a message from Hon. Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Governor of the Province of Ilocos Norte, who emphasized good sports, the safety of the players and participants, respect for other players, and respect for the game.

Ms. Janella Denise M. Ballesteros, SCUAA National Games Athlete Swimming from MMSU, let the Oath of Sporting Spirit; while MS. Casie Margarett A. Medina, SCUAA National Culture and Arts Festival Artist from MMSU, led the Oath of Artistic Integrity. Also, Prof. Floresto A. Franco, Jr., MMSU Chief for Sports Development; and Prof. Rowell C. Tagatac, MMSU Chief for Cultural Development, led the Officiator’s Pledge.

A highlight of the ceremony was the Enigma of Lights, a dynamic performance by MMSU PE Students, followed by the Lighting of the Athletic Urn by SUC-1 Sports and Cultural Team Captains, symbolizing the commencement of the competitions.

Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. currently the President for PASUC-1 and President of DMMMSU, officially opened the SCUAA-1 Regional Games and the PASUC-1 Culture & Arts Festival, igniting excitement among participants and spectators alike.

The opening program concluded with Closing Remarks from Dr. Christine N. Ferrer, CHED ROI Director, and ISPSC OIC President, and a spectacular Symphony in the Sky presented by the PASUC-1, leaving the audience in awe.

The ceremony heralds a week of thrilling competitions, artistic showcases, and a celebration of the region’s finest talents. With camaraderie and excellence as guiding principles, the SCUAA-1 and PASUC-1 events promise unforgettable experiences for student-athletes and artists, each representing their university. (By Ayu)