The 87th season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) kicked off with an unparalleled display of style and spectacle, as University of the Philippines (UP) delivered what could be the most glamorous opening ceremony in the league’s storied history.
The sold-out SMART Araneta Coliseum was transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement and celebration on Saturday.
The highlight of the event was a breathtaking performance by the iconic OPM band Eraserheads. Reuniting once more for their alma mater’s hosting, the band’s set was a fitting tribute to the season’s theme: “Stronger, Better, Together.”
“Did you know that it’s our first time performing at Araneta?” said Eraserheads lead singer Ely Buendia, joined by guitarist Marcus Adoro, bassist Buddy Zabala, and drummer Raimund Marasigan.
Their full set of seven songs—Alapaap, Sembreak, Ligaya, Pare Ko, Minsan, Magasin, and Ang Huling El Bimbo—created an unforgettable experience for both the band and the UAAP community.
UAAP Season 87 Chairman and UP President Atty. Jijil Jimenez expressed his excitement and pride for the event, stating, “The University of the Philippines opens the Season 87 as hosts by sending a message to the world that together, we can be stronger and better as schools, as a community, as a nation, and as citizens of the world.”
“From its beginnings almost a century ago, the UAAP has become what it is today – the most popular college sporting franchise this country has ever seen and it’s most valuable as well,” he continued.
Season President and UP Chancellor Carlo Vistan II officially declared the season open, marking the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling year of athletic competition.
“Let this season be a testament to the unity, the excellence, and the sportsmanship that define the UAAP. This season, we make our athletes stronger, better, together,” said Vistan.
The opening ceremony saw all eight member schools parading their student-athletes, showcasing the diverse talent and enthusiasm that define the UAAP.
The morning’s festivities continued with a traditional Oath of Sportsmanship led by UAAP Season 86 Athlete of the Year and UP swimmer Quendy Fernandez, reaffirming the league’s commitment to fair play and camaraderie.
The Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament kicks off later today at 6:30 p.m. with a high-stakes match between the Fighting Maroons and the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles.
Adding to the day’s excitement, UP alum and indie musician Johnoy Danao took to the stage.
Slapshock guitarist Lean Ansing, Franco bassist Dave Delfin, and Moonstar88’s drummer Bon Sundiang and vocalist Maysh Baay—all distinguished products of UP and calling themselves the “Maroon 4” — performed a rendition of The Beatles classic “Come Together” as the student-athletes, officials, and fans from all eight member schools rocked the Big Dome in unison.
P-Pop unit Kaia and hip-hop dance group UPeepz also delivered stirring performances, setting the stage for an extraordinary season.
UP also delivered a stunning drone show that illuminated the historic Big Dome, complemented by a moving production from the UP Symphony Orchestra and Kontra Gapi, the UP College of Arts and Letters’ ethnic music and dance ensemble.
As the curtains fell on a truly unforgettable opening ceremony, one thing was clear: UAAP Season 87 is off to a spectacular start, promising a season filled with unforgettable moments and fierce competition.
