Arellano University and its athletes step into NCAA Season 101 with renewed drive as the league ushered in its neo-centennial era through a grand opening ceremony on Wednesday, October 1, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Carrying the theme “Building Greatness,” host school Mapua University set the stage for a season that honors tradition while embracing new milestones in Philippine collegiate sports.
The program began with stirring performances from Aicelle Santos and the Mapua Cardinal Singers who sang “Hallelujah” while the national anthem followed, also led by the Mapua Cardinal Singers.
After the ceremonial lighting of the torch, hosts Martin Javier, Ashley Garcia, and Anjo Pertierra welcomed the crowd to the Parade of Greatness, where each NCAA institution proudly showcased its colors and athletes.
Representing Arellano University were Mr. Francisco Paulino V. Cayco for the Policy Board and Mr. Peter S. Cayco for the NCAA Management Committee, both standing as pillars of the Chiefs’ enduring commitment to excellence on and off the court.
In his address, Mapua University president Dr. Dodjie Maestrecampo alluded to ongoing alleged corruption issues.
"At a time when questions of accountability echo in our nation, the NCAA stands firm. Integrity is non-negotiable."
He went on to emphasize the role of student-athletes beyond competition: "...you are more than players. You are role models — resilient, courageous, and principled."
Meanwhile, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman John Patrick Gregorio revisited the league’s golden years of the 1950s to 1970s at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, crediting the NCAA as the foundation that later inspired professional and collegiate leagues like the PBA and UAAP.
He also lauded the NCAA’s bold move to introduce four Olympic sports — gymnastics, weightlifting, boxing, and golf — in the second half of the season. This development mirrors the PSC’s recent program "from grassroots to gold, from gold to greatness," spotlighting the Philippines’ recent Olympic triumphs, including gymnast Carlos Yulo’s historic double gold and Hidilyn Diaz’s weightlifting gold.
The athletes’ oath of sportsmanship was led by reigning MVP and Mapua Cardinals skipper Clint Escamis, inspiring peers across the league, including the Arellano Chiefs, to compete with heart and honor.
Adding flair to the festivities, GMA’s All-Out Sundays Divas of Queendom, Thea Astley, Hannah Precillas, and Naya Ambi, brought the crowd to its feet with their rendition of the Season 101 theme song, "Own the Future."
The ceremonial opening concluded with the season’s first basketball clash between host Mapua University and Lyceum of the Philippines University, signaling the start of months of intense competition.
For Arellano University, Season 101 is more than just a fresh start. It is a stage for the Chiefs’ student-athletes to prove their resilience, passion, and determination. Fueled by the support of their coaches, peers, and the entire AU community, the Chiefs are ready to rise to the challenge and carve their mark in the NCAA’s new century.
As the drums of competition roll and the lights shine on the hardwood, one thing is certain: Arellano University and the rest of the NCAA are ready to build greatness — together.
- Carlo T. Arsula
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