Centro Escolar University led the opening ceremonies of the Universities and Colleges Athletic League (UCAL) Season 8 as the official host, held at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.
With the theme “Rising to New Heights,” this year’s season gathers student-athletes from CEU and other eight participating institutions: Diliman College, Lyceum of the Philippines University–Batangas, Olivarez College, Philippine Women’s University, Philippine Christian University–Dasmariñas, Immaculada Conception College, University of Batangas, and Manila Central University.
CEU President and Chief Academic Officer Atty. Danilo L. Concepcion formally opened the season with his welcome message and declaration of the official start of the league. Col. Edison Nebrija, UCALI Board of Director and PG Flex Linoleum Representative, also shared his message.
Adding inspiration to the event, Mr. Franz Ray Diaz, a former CEU basketball player and now a PBA (Professional Basketball Association) player for the Terrafirma Team, reflected on his journey from being a student-athlete to a professional player. His story served as a motivation that perseverance and passion can turn dreams into reality.
The ceremonial lighting of the flame was led by the team captains and management core group, symbolizing the athletes’ unity and determination. This was followed by the Oath of Sportsmanship, led by Dylan Darbin, CEU Basketball Team Captain, affirming the participants’ commitment to fair play and camaraderie.
One of the highlights of the event was the Street Dance Competition, where the CEU Streetsquad impressed the crowd and secured the First Runner-Up title.
The program also featured the much-anticipated Mr. and Ms. UCALI pageant. LPU–Batangas’ representative was crowned Mr. UCALI, while PCU–Dasmariñas took home the Ms. UCALI title.
The successful opening ceremony marked an energetic start to UCAL Season 8, celebrating athletic excellence, school spirit, and the drive to rise to new heights.
For more information about CEU, please visit the official website of the University at www.ceu.edu.ph. You may also follow CEU on Facebook at @theCEUofficial, @CEUMalolosofficial, @CEUMakati05; on Twitter at @CEUmanila, @CEU_Makati05, and @CEUMalolos; on Instagram at @ceuofficial; on Youtube @CEUofficial; on Tiktok at ceuofficial_; and on Spotify at Escolarian Talks.