The feast of blazing combats between the muscle frames of about a thousand warriors from five fighting tribes in the SCUAA-I 2009 started with an explosive, big bang.

At 2:30 pm, athletes and school personnel, led by their university presidents, marched with much pride around Batac from their starting point, Imelda Cultural Center to their Finish line, MMSU. Delegates had a glimpse of Bataqeños’ culture of hospitality. The native empanada was showcased in dance performances organized by the City Government of Batac specially for the athletes.

When they arrived at the MMSU oval, 3 pm, the opening program was held. Waving colorful flags, the athletes traversed the grass-covered ground and stood in attention.

MMSU President Miriam E. Pascua welcomed the delegations warmly. Emphasizing the benefits of sports, Pascua stressed, \"We will uphold our commitment to the Filipino nation to produce globally competitive manpower.\"

Gov. Michael Marcos Keon, a well-known figure in the field of sports, ably represented by Ilocos Norte Board Member Elena Nalupta, also extended his warmest greetings and best luck to the athletes and coaches. Nalupta said Pacquiao’s athletic prowess and sportsmanship should inspire Ilocano athletes. Nalupta stated, \"Some people say, you win some and you lose some. But really, you win some and you learn some.\"

Mayor Jeffrey Jubal C. Nalupta admonished the athletes to consider Batac as their second home. The Mayor also invited the participants to try Batac’s famous empanada.

Mariano ‘Nonong’ Marcos, representing Congressman Ferdinand \"Bongbong\" Marcos Jr., also delivered an inspirational message to the athletes.

The traditional cycling around the oval by the MMSU team was witnessed by the crowd. After the 2-round pedaling moment, MMSU runners groomed the track as they accompanied the trail of the symbolic torch. As it goes to the track, fire exposes its vital essence to the activity, as it suggests the start of the battle and the opening of the arena.

Humorous yet dramatic incidents went on as the faulty earth ball failed to work out as it was shot into the grand torch (which was expected to fire after the shooting). But it was eventually lit up by an officer of the Kinetics Club. (See story on page 6)

Field demonstrations prepared by Batac and Laoag Campus entertained the delegations who were impressed by the choreography, steps and eye-catching costumes.

ISPSC was in luck to hoist their banner ahead of other universities. (JV Torribio)