In line with the 37th Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletics Association (SCUAA) Games, universities and colleges spanning Region 8 gathered back to the very scenic university, Visayas State University after 6 long years. The long-awaited sports competition have officially opened with a grand ceremony, marking the beginning of an exciting week full of camaraderie and sportsmanship. This year’s RSCUAA Games is anchored on the theme “Weaving Strengths: Hinabing Kusog,” that represents the strength and weavement of all the participants in this year’s edition, making it one of the largest gatherings of student athletes and coaches in Region 8.
The ceremony was attended by 11 delegates from different universities and colleges (SUCs) across Region 8, namely, Visayas State University (VSU), Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), Samar State University (SSU), Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU), and Eastern Samar State University (ESSU).
The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU), Leyte Normal University (LNU), Palompon Institute of Technology (PIT), Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), University of Eastern Philippines (UP), and University of the Philippines Tacloban College (UPTC) were also part of the delegates to compete in the sporting events.
Moreover, the opening day commenced with a Thanksgiving Mass held at Holy Spirit Parish, Baybay City, Leyte, in order to ask guidance for a fruitful and safe conduct and celebration of activities. It was then followed by a motorcade parade in the afternoon, which took place at Baybay City Grandstand. Subsequently, upon the return of all the delegates, another parade also occurred leading from VSU Lower Oval Grounds to the VSU Upper Oval Grounds to witness for the opening ceremony.
The atmosphere was palpable as different universities and colleges participated enthusiastically in the ground demonstrations and performed a vibrant dance along with their spirit animal mascots, creating a lively atmosphere of diversity and unity. Furthermore, Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin expressed a warm welcome in his opening remarks to the participating SUCs for this year’s Region 8 State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Games during the opening ceremony.
Meanwhile, Prof. Josephine Joy Reyes, Executive Director, National Academy of Sports, and one of the speakers for the 37th SCUAA 8 Games, shared inspirational words to the athletes, to always play fair and earn valuable lessons in this SCUAA experience.
As the event came to a conclusion, the symbolic torch for SCUAA 2023 was lit to to enkindle unity, hope, and inspiration among the delegates. After the torch was ignited, Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin, Visayas State University President, officially opened and cued RSCUAA 2023, signifying the start of the festivities and sporting competitions.
