By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Swimmers representing the West Visayas State University (WVSU) and Region VI made waves during the National States Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) last October 3, 2023, held in New Clark City.

Carrying the momentum they built after being hailed as champions during the Regional SCUAA Games several weeks ago, the WVSU swimmers put on a show against the best of the best athletes all over the Philippines.

The trio of Moses Oliver Bito-onon, Martin Alphonse Bito-onon, and Vhee Junnyne Militar carried the WVSU and Region VI banners with flawlessness after hauling a total of 14 medals.

Winning the most medals was Moses Bito-onon after clinching four golds and three silver medals in seven different categories.

Moses raised his championship trophies in the 200m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 100m freestyle, and the 4×50 freestyle relay.

Meanwhile, he managed to secure the silver medals in the 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly, and the 4×50 medley relay category.

Dominating in the women’s division was Militar after claiming a gold, two bronzes, and a silver medal finish.

Militar snatched the gold medal in the 50m backstroke while settling for silver in the 4×100 freestyle relay. Her two bronze medals came after doing enough in the 100m breaststroke and the 50m breaststroke.

Last but not the least, Moses’ brother, Martin, won a gold medal and two silver medal finishes in three different categories.

Martin won in the 4×50 freestyle relay and secured his two silver medals in the 50m backstroke and the 4×50 medley relay.

“A remarkable performance of our WVSU swimmers representing Western Visayas. The hard work during training while balancing their academic work requires commitment and dedication. That is why they are winners. We are thankful for the unending support of the WVSU administration headed by our President Dr. Joselito Villaruz,” said Dr. Richard Gabayoyo, sports director of WVSU, during an exclusive interview with the Daily Guardian.