The wait is over, and the action begins as the 2024 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) Sports Festival officially kicks off today, December 15, 2024, hosted by the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST).
This is the first time ISUFST has hosted the event, which brings together more than 3,500 athletes, coaches, officials, and organizers from 13 state universities across Western Visayas to compete in 42 events at 22 venues.
Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr., ISUFST president, expressed pride and excitement for this historic occasion.
“Today represents a historic milestone for ISUFST,” he said.
“Although we were originally set to host in 2019, unexpected challenges delayed the event. Now, we’re finally ready to welcome all participants and guests,” he added.
Dr. Siason extended his gratitude to local government units, partner organizations, supporters, and the ISUFST community for their unwavering dedication.
“This event is a collective achievement. The commitment of our local communities and the ISUFST family has been instrumental in making this event a reality,” he said.
The 2024 RSCUAA holds special significance as it may be the last time universities from Negros Occidental will participate, with the impending implementation of the Negros Island Region (NIR) Act, which will change the competition landscape in future years.
Prominent guests gracing today’s activities include national athlete-turned-beauty queen Alexie Mae Brooks and Philippine Sports Commission Consultant Raymundo Lapating. Local and national public officials are also expected to show their support.
The opening day features several key events, including the Solidarity Meeting at 8 a.m., a Parade at 3 p.m., and the Opening Ceremony at 4 p.m. The LGU Night, scheduled at 7:30 p.m., will celebrate local culture and hospitality, fostering camaraderie among participants.
The Solidarity Meeting is currently underway at Tamasak Arena in Barotac Nuevo, led by Dr. Siason.
The program includes motivational talks by guest speaker Alexie Brooks and Dr. Raymundo A. Lapating, alongside key sessions such as a Security Briefing by PCAPT Cedrick B. Cruz, Emergency Response Orientation by Engr. Cyril M. Sazon, Medical Response Orientation by Dr. Kharlle Joehn B. Hautea, and Psychological Support for athletes by Dr. Imelda M. Arenga.
Dr. Siason assured the public of the security and well-being of all athletes, with security measures in place through collaboration with regional and provincial police offices, as well as the security teams of each delegation.
The festival spans six billeting areas in Iloilo’s fourth district, ensuring accommodations for all participants.
The theme, “One Western Visayas: Promoting Peace, Inclusivity, and Well-Being through Sports,” highlights collaboration, respect, and the goal of fostering harmony across the region.
Regional Association of State Universities and Colleges (RASUC VI) Chairman and Northern Iloilo State University President Dr. Bobby Gerardo emphasized the importance of this theme.
“This year’s theme resonates deeply with the core values that unite us as institutions committed to excellence, integrity, and the holistic development of our youth,” he said.
The six-day event features competitions at multiple venues, including baseball at Anilao National High School and basketball, volleyball, arnis, and other sports in Barotac Nuevo barangay gyms.
Events such as billiards, badminton, futsal, and pencak silat will take place in Lapaz, Iloilo City, while beach volleyball and softball will be hosted at ISUFST Dumagas Campus.
Martial arts events, including karate and taekwondo, as well as men’s volleyball, are set for ISUFST Main Campus-Tiwi Site, while other competitions such as chess and esports will take place at the Main Campus-Poblacion Site.
Athletic events like football, swimming, lawn tennis, and table tennis will be held at the Iloilo Sports Complex, while boxing will be staged in Passi City.
As universities battle for top honors, competition is expected to be intense.
Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISATU), the overall champion of RSCUAA 2023 with 45 golds, 37 silvers, and 20 bronze medals, will defend its title.
Other contenders include West Visayas State University (WVSU), Guimaras State University (GSU), University of Antique (UA), and ISUFST, along with Aklan State University (ASU), University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV), Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), and others.
The participating universities collectively represent more than 110,000 college students.
Dr. Siason reflected on the event’s broader impact.
“The importance of today goes beyond sports. It’s about creating lasting bonds and strengthening unity among our universities. This event celebrates our collective strength and commitment to excellence,” he concluded.
