Energized by hope and driven by a commitment to sportsmanship, the Batangas Universities, Schools, and Colleges Athletic Association (BUSCAA) Season 26 kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony at the host school, St. Bridget College, Batangas City, Sept. 29, 2025.
This year’s theme, “BUSCAA Athletes: Bearers of Hope, Camaraderie, and Sportsmanship,” set the stage for an inspiring celebration of unity and athletic excellence.
The event commenced with a solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr. Angel Marcelo Pastor.
In his homily, Fr. Pastor emphasized the importance of being bearers of hope, camaraderie, and sportsmanship, inspiring the young athletes to embody these values throughout the season.
Following the mass, the festivities continued with a vibrant welcoming dance performed by students from the College Department.
The program included the traditional entrance of colors and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by a doxology and BUSCAA Throwback Audio-Visual Presentation (AVP).
The opening production number dazzled the audience with a modern dance performed by the Performing Arts Office – Repertory Brigid (PAO-RB).
This was followed by the much-anticipated presentation of the participating schools namely Sovereign Shepherd School of Values and Learning, Scuola Maria Batangas, Inc., Our Lady of Caysasay Academy, University of Batangas Lipa City, Westmead International School, Batangas Christian School, Batangas State University – The National Engineering University, Colegio ng Lungsod ng Batangas, Golden Gate Colleges, Lipa City Colleges, Casa Del Bambino Emmanuel Montessori, La Consolacion College Tanauan, St. Dominic Savio College, Stonyhurst Southville International School, and St. Bridget College Inc.
Sr. Ma. Añanita Borbon, RGS, college president, delivered a heartfelt welcome message, encouraging all athletes to compete with integrity and respect.
The stage then came alive with performances from the Basic Education Junior High School and Senior High School performers as they showcased folk dances that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
Bringing a contemporary flair to the event, the event also featured a modern dance and light dance by PAO RB.
A significant moment was the lighting of the BUSCAA Flame, led by torchbearer Ronn Gustav Generoso, symbolizing the passion and dedication of all athletes involved.
Gabrielle Lourine Mercado led the Athlete’s Prayer, followed by the Oath of Sportsmanship, administered by Sharenea Luna Cruz.
The ceremony culminated with the official declaration of the 26th Season by Sr. Ma. Añanita Borbon, RGS, who then led the flag-raising ceremony alongside members of the Policy Board and Management Committee.
To conclude the opening ceremony and celebrate the unity and friendship among participants, selected students from different schools performed the BUSCAA Solidarity Dance.
Mr. Fernando Cultura, the Sports Program Coordinator, along with other committee members from the host school, collaborated to prepare for the event and ensure a memorable and inspiring kick-off for BUSCAA Season 26.
As the season unfolds, participants and supporters alike look forward to a series of exciting athletic events, underpinned by the values of hope, camaraderie, and sportsmanship that BUSCAA embodies.
By:
Dr. Imelda B. Vergara
Institutional Research, Planning and Publications Officer