Host UP impresses crowd, ushers in new UAAP season

MANILA, Philippines – The University Athletic Association of the Philippines’ 78th season unfurled on Saturday behind a colorful backdrop, depicting the country’s proud heritage and history as prepared by host school University of the Philippines.

UP’s eight performing groups, representing the number of member-schools, took center stage with their breathtaking dance routines.

Colorful and giant floats also dominated the center court before a jam-packed crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The eight groups that performed on opening day included the UP Filipiniana Dance Group, the UP DanceSport Society, the UP Concert Chorus (Korus), the UP Tugtugang Musika Asyatika (UP TUGMA), the UP ROTC Symphonic Band, UP Varsity Pep Squad, UP Streetdance Club and UP Dance Company.

Select student-athletes from other sports also joined the traditional opening parade with the host school stressing the value of harmony among the eight member schools led by the University of Santo Tomas, De La Salle University, Ateneo, Adamson, National University, Far Eastern University and University of the East.

UAAP president and UP chancellor Michael Tan, who welcomed the students, alumni and all participants, emphasized the importance of promoting health and sports in the league.

“Bilang punong abala ng UAAP Season 78, umaayon ang pagkakataon sa UP upang mas maging mapaigting at palaganapin ang mga adhikain nito kaugnay sa programang pangkalusugan, isports at pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga alumni,” Tan said in a short speech he prepared.

The UAAP Season 78 theme is “Tumitindig, Sumusulong”. UP, which is hosting the UAAP for the 11th time since the league began in 1938, succeeded UE.