Guimaras State University (GSU) Sea Dragons proudly participated in the 2024 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) Sports Festival, which officially commenced on December 15. Hosted by the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), this year’s event is a landmark occasion for Western Visayas.

For the first time, ISUFST is hosting the RSCUAA, bringing together over 3,500 athletes, coaches, officials, and organizers from 13 state universities across the region. Participants from Aklan State University (ASU), Capiz State University (CAPSU), Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU), Central Philippines State University (CPSU), GSU, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), ISUFST, Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), Philippine Normal University Visayas (PNUV), State University of Northern Negros (SUNN), University of Antique (UA), University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV), and West Visayas State University (WVSU) are competing in 42 events held across 22 venues.

The celebration’s grand kickoff procession commenced at the ISUFST sports ground and concluded at the Tamasak Stadium, where vibrant flags and lively acts marked the beginning of the seven-day festivity.

Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr., the ISUFST president, emphasized the importance of the event, “Today represents a historic milestone for ISUFST,” said Dr. Siason. “Although we were originally set to host in 2019, unexpected challenges delayed the event. Now, we’re finally ready to welcome all participants and guests.”

Dr. Siason expressed his gratitude to local government units, partner organizations, and the ISUFST community for their collective efforts in making the event possible. “This event is a collective achievement. The commitment of our local communities and the ISUFST family has been instrumental in making this event a reality,” he added.

The 2024 RSCUAA is particularly momentous as it may mark the final participation of universities from Negros Occidental due to the impending implementation of the Negros Island Region (NIR) Act, which will reshape future competitions.

Under the theme, “One Western Visayas: Promoting Peace, Inclusivity, and Well-Being through Sports,” the festival foregrounds collaboration and unity.

Regional Association of State Universities and Colleges (RASUC VI) Chairman and Northern Iloilo State University President Dr. Bobby Gerardo emphasized the importance of this vision.

“This year’s theme resonates deeply with the core values that unite us as institutions committed to excellence, integrity, and the holistic development of our youth,” he said.

The six-day event features a diverse range of competitions spread across multiple venues. Highlights include baseball at Anilao National High School; basketball, volleyball, and arnis at Barotac Nuevo barangay gyms; and billiards, badminton, futsal, and pencak silat in Lapaz, Iloilo City. ISUFST’s Dumagas Campus hosts beach volleyball and softball, while martial arts events, including karate and taekwondo, are at ISUFST’s Main Campus-Tiwi Site. Chess and esports are being held at the Main Campus-Poblacion Site. The Iloilo Sports Complex accommodates events such as football, swimming, lawn tennis, and table tennis, while boxing takes place in Passi City.

As more than 110,000 students from participating universities cheer on their teams, competition is expected to be fierce. The festival not only celebrates athletic excellence but also fosters camaraderie among institutions.

“The importance of today goes beyond sports,” Dr. Siason reflected. “It’s about creating lasting bonds and strengthening unity among our universities. This event celebrates our collective strength and commitment to excellence.”