UAAP opens Season 78 with focus on health, sports, and strong camaraderie  

THE 78^th season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) opened with a touch of nostalgia and spirit of camaraderie following an elaborate opening ceremony prepared by host University of the Philippines.

Eight performing groups from the Diliman-based school showcased the country’s rich history as presented in colorful floats and well-choreographed dance routines performed before a capacity crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The eight groups – representing the leagues’ number of member schools – that performed were UP Filipiniana Dance Group, UP Dance Company, UP Streetdance Club, UP Varsity Pep Squad, UP ROTC Symphonic Band, UP Concert Chorus (Korus), UP Tugtugang Musika Asyatika (UP TUGMA), and the UP DanceSport Society.

UAAP president and UP chancellor Michael Tan later welcomed all participants, students, and alumni and stressed the timely opportunity for the league to promote the importance of health and sports.

He also made mention about strengthening the bond among the eight member schools, namely, - National University, Far Eastern University, La Salle, Ateneo, University of Santo Tomas, University of the East and Adamson.

This year’s theme is “Tumitindig, Sumusulong.”

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

“Magandang pagkakataon din ito upang lalong patatagin ang pakikipag-ugnayan ng UP sa mga kasaping unibersidad ng UAAP.”

The State University is one of the founding members of the UAAP first established in 1938, along with UST, FEU, and NU.

UP is hosting the meet for the 11^th time.