'Bigger, bolder' UAAP Season 88 set for UST grand opening in September

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MANILA, Philippines - A jam-packed opening weekend is anticipated when the UAAP Season 88 kicks off at the University of Santo Tomas on September 19.

As the host school of UAAP Season 88, UST promises an opening weekend like no other, with the opening ceremony taking place at the UST Grandstand and Open Field, followed by the start of the highly anticipated men's basketball tournament at the Quadricentennial Pavilion on September 20 and 21.

"Now the gates of España are wide open. The stage has been set," said Father Rodel Cansancio, UAAP Season 88 president and UST Institute of Physical Education and Athletics director during the league's press conference on Wednesday, August 27, inside the campus.

"To the UAAP community, we are more than ready to give it our all and release the loudest roar this season."

Looking to recreate the festive spirit of Paskuhan and the Thomasian Welcome Walk, the opening ceremony of UAAP Season 88, begins with a Eucharistic celebration inspired by the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year of Hope at 2 pm.

It will be followed by the "Journey of Hope" program at 6 pm, which will feature the parade of student-athletes, the oath of sportsmanship, and the lighting of the UAAP cauldron, among others.

The event will also showcase "stunning performances," a drone display, wall projection mapping, a fireworks show, a special surprise number, and a "Hope Concert" to cap off the festivities.

"This year, we are taking it to the next level. Bigger, bolder, and more spectacular than ever before," said Cansancio as the event organizers expect a crowd of 25,000 to 30,000 for the opening ceremony.

According to Cansancio and UAAP Season 88 program head Father Jeffrey Aytona, the opening ceremony will be moved to Monday, September 22, in case of inclement weather, as contingencies are already in place for the notoriously flood-prone university in Manila.

During the press conference on Wednesday, UST also unveiled the official theme song for UAAP Season 88 titled "Strength in Motion, Hope in Action" -- the same theme for this season -- performed by UST alumnus Kean Cipriano, former vocalist of iconic Filipino band Callalily. - Rappler.com