The State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA-1) Olympics 2024 formally opened at the Marcos Sports Center, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – South La Union Campus (DMMMSU-SLUC), Agoo, La Union, today, April 15, 2024.
Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., President of the host institution, welcomed about 2500 delegates from the five SUCs-1 – Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), University of Northern Philippines, Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), Pangasinan State University (PSU) and Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University.
In his welcome address, President Manuel cheered on all the participating delegates whose response swept over the spectators.
“You already are all champions [from your respective institutions] but your coming to DMMMSU [for the Olympics] will make you a greater champions — champions who play fairly, squarely, and in a friendly manner. We may come from different SUCs but we all belong to Region-1 with one dream and one goal, to make Region-1, number one,” he said.
Following President Manuel’s welcome remarks, the respective delegates were presented.
Also, Hon. Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David, La Union Governor graced the Olympics. She underscored that this year’s Olympic’s theme “One North, One Goal: Fostering Unity, Inspiring Solidarity” resonates with PGLU’s battlecry which is La Union PROBINSIYAnihan. “This modernized take on teamwork and unity is the foundation of our province’s progress and I am happy to know that it is also apparent in this year’s SCUAA-1 Olympics. With this, I believe that Region-1 would be able to foster participants who embrace wins both in sports and friendship,” she remarked.
Following, Gov. Raffy’s speech, key government officials also exhorted the athletes and the spectators. After that, Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna, alongside SUC-1 Presidents, held the ceremonial hoisting of the SCUAA-1 banner, symbolizing solidarity among the participating institutions.
Subsequently, Sports Directors, Muses, and Escorts raised their institutional banners.
In addition, athletes solemnly recited the Athlete’s Oath of Sportsmanship, pledging to compete with integrity and honor throughout the games.
Moreover, the officiators, alongside presidents, sports directors, and one athlete per SUC, participated in the traditional lighting of the Athletic Urn, signifying the ignition of passion and determination in the pursuit of athletic excellence.
Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna, President of PASUC-1, formally declared the opening of the SCUAA-1 Olympics, heralding a vibrant, spirited 5-day Olympics.
The ceremony culminated in a captivating field demonstration by 3200 DMMMSU freshmen and sophomores enrolled in their PATHFIT courses. (By Ayu)