Star-studded musical performances usher in UAAP Season 87

MANILA, Philippines – UAAP Season 87 is officially open. 

After one dazzling performance after another, the new collegiate season of the UAAP has officially kicked off Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. 

It was a star-studded opening ceremony, with performances from musician Johnoy Danao; P-pop unit Kaia; hip-hop group UPeepz; a drone show; “Maroon 4,” which was made up of Franco bassist Dave Delfin, Slapshock guitarist Lean Ansing and Moonstar88’s Maysh Baay and Bon Sundiang; the UP Symphony Orchestra and the UP Kontra GaPi to start off the festivities.

The event was highlighted by a seven-song performance of iconic rock band Eraserheads, which was their first performance at the Big Dome.

Each UAAP team also took part in a parade, followed by the traditional oath of sportsmanship led by UAAP Season 86 Athlete of the Year and UP swimmer Quendy Fernandez.

Season 87 president and Carlo Vistan II and chairman Atty. Angelo Jimenez, also UP’s chancellor and president, respectively, then officially declared the season open.

“Today, the University of the Philippines opens the UAAP Season 87 as hosts by sending a message to the world that together, we can be stronger, better, as schools, as a community, as a nation and as citizens of the world,” Jimenez said. 

“We are eight universities in one league, it’s driven by competition and yet tightly bound and guided by collegiality and sportsmanship,” he added. 

“In our UAAP Season 87 logo, you see our hands in huddle. All eight of us bound together to ensure the success of the UAAP, not just for this season, but for all seasons to come.”

For his part, Vistan voiced hope that the season would be a “testament to the unity, the excellence, and the sportsmanship that define the UAAP.”

“This season, we make our athletes stronger, better, together. It is with great honor that i know formally declare UAAP Season 87 open.” 

Afterward, the Eraserheads performed seven of their greatest hits — Alapaap, Sembreak, Ligaya, Pare Ko, Minsan, Magasin and Ang Huling El Bimbo. 

With the season now officially underway, the basketball action tips off in the evening, starting with “The Battle of Katipunan” between UP and Ateneo.