By Jesslyn Keith Valite

The storms have cleared, and the excitement is here—MMSU Stallions are back in sports action.

On this sunny November 19, the 2024 MMSU University Games: Re-emerge officially began, bringing student-athletes, artists, and the academic community together to celebrate unity, sportsmanship, and the arts.

The grand opening ceremony at the MMSU Oval followed the pre-Unigames event on November 16 and the start of competitions yesterday. Representing MMSU OIC-President Dr. Prima Fe R. Franco, Vice President for Resource Generation and Management Dr. Bjorn Santos officially declared the games open. The ceremony featured creative performances and presentations by the 14 colleges, including the newly established College of Dentistry.

In his message, Dr. Santos emphasized the event's significance in nurturing unity among the MMSU stallions. “We may wear different colors in the field but we all bleed the green and gold,” he said. “This event is a celebration of talent, camaraderie, and school pride,” he added.

Among the highlights of the opening ceremony was the lighting of the MMSU athletic urn, marking the official commencement of the games. Andrei Constantino, captain of the volleyball varsity team, was the torchbearer. The torch was relayed to the Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Oscar Agpaoa, along with the members of the administrative council, and athletic managers of the university, who then lit the urn, symbolizing the beginning of Unigames.

Meanwhile, Director for Planning Dr. Marlowe Aquino, led the pledge of technical officials, emphasizing fair judgment and impartiality. Ms. Janella Denisse Ballesteros, a 2023 national SCUAA bronze medalist, led the athletes in the oath of amateurism, embodying the values of fair play and integrity.

University Student Council President Aleczandrix Marc Cid encouraged his fellow students to embrace the games’ competitive spirit while upholding respect and camaraderie. “We gather as a united community sharing a passion for sportsmanship and excellence,” he stated. 

Adding to the excitement, representatives from various colleges shared their fearless forecasts for this year’s games. The College of Engineering Maroons, the reigning champions with an impressive streak of nine consecutive overall victories, enter the 2024 Unigames carrying high expectations and a proud legacy of excellence. As they strive to defend their title, they face intense competition from other colleges determined to seize the championship.