By Benjie de Ubago
Last Friday, 19th September, “All Roads Led to España” as hosts of this year’s UAAP season 88, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) ushered in the UAAP Season 88 in grand style.
UST’s very own Olympic hero, E. J. Obiena lights up the cauldron marking the start of the UAAP season 88.
UST alumnus and recording star, Kean Cipriano sang this year’s UAAP theme song “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action.“
The opening was nothing short of spectacular as a pyrotechnics, lights and drone show unfolded right in the UST España campus. From the Arch of the Century, to the main building to the showground where over 36,000 people had been accommodated. Images were projected onto the facade of the main building with school logos lighting up the sky and chants reverberating throughout the grounds. Every detail from stage decor, entertainment to uniforms & jackets were meticulously planned and executed.
It was a journey of hope for all athletes with this year’s theme – “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action.” It uplifted the spirits not only of the athletes but the nation drowning in scandals.
Athletes from the eight UAAP participating schools marched through the Arch of the Century proudly wearing their colours and carrying their school sign. As they walked through the arch, their logo lit up in lights and their cheers echoed throughout the grounds.
It was rain or shine but lucky the rain held up until after the main proceedings had been completed. It then continued with the Concert of Hope as organised by the student councils.
Pop idol, Sarah Geronimo graced the stages.
Noteworthy was how UST took the opportunity to showcase the talents nurtured by the University – – from the musical talents of the composer, music alumnus & vocal artist of the UAAP theme song Kean Cipriano; the sporting heroes with E.J. Obiena lighting the cauldron in Olympic style; the ‘Icons of hope’ were alumni role models including journbaluist Christian Esguerra; the performers & entertainers – the UST Symphony, Salinggawi Dance Troupe, Teatro Tomasino – along with the teachers and students. Even pop idol Sarah Geronimo, a UST HS alumna graced the stage.
Behind the scenes were also UST alumni – from Rev Father Jeffrey Aytona headed the production team supported by Marvin Rellamas and the flowless direction of Frank Lloyd Mamaril.
Very Reverend Father Richard Ang OP, UST Rector in his welcome speech urged the community to “light up with passion and play with determination.” “More than a celebration but a promise of rising higher together,” he added. It is worth noting that Rev Father Rector received an honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of Notre Dame Australia in May 2025 for his contributions to catholic education. .
UST Alumni Australia congratulates Rev. Father Christopher Jeffrey Aytona OP, the committee Chairperson for the UAAP opening along with all the academic staff and student organisations, students and alumni who gave their time to ensure that this season’s UAAP opening was a success. It was the best ever UAAP opening and it sure will be difficult to beat.
The UST main building illuminated in all its splendor.
We, Thomasians are beyond proud!
Photos courtesy of The Varsitarian.
20 Sept 2025
