TBC News How Manila Central University launched UCAL Season 9 with music, dance, and athletic pride

Manila Central University (MCU) officially opened Season 9 of the Universities and Colleges Athletic League (UCAL) PG Flex Linoleum on Sept. 19 at the Playtime FilOil Flying V Center in San Juan City, taking on hosting duties for the first time in program history.

Decked in signature purple and gold, the MCU Supremos delegation marched through the venue alongside rival athletic programs to kick off the new collegiate athletic year.

Key Event Highlights

Athletes’ Oath: MCU Supremos basketball guard Ralph Justine Tadeo led the official oath of sportsmanship for all participating student-athletes.
Dance Competition Victory: MCU’s dance crew, Ritmo Centralino, finished as 1st Runner-Up in the street dance competition, placing ahead of seven other institutions in a nine-school field.
Live Performances: Popular Filipino musical acts Matthaios and Lola Amour performed for the audience, with Lola Amour closing the ceremony with their hit single “Raining In Manila.”

“It feels exciting to see the entire MCU community come together and show their support. This year’s event is truly bigger and bolder. We’re not just playing for ourselves—we carry the whole MCU community with us. We are proud to be Supremos and ready to show what we can do,” said Tadeo.

Expanding Athletic Footprint

Season 9 marks MCU’s fourth year competing in UCAL, making the university one of the league’s youngest member institutions. University leadership highlighted the opening ceremony as a milestone for MCU’s expanding sports program as student-athletes prepare to compete across multiple disciplines this season.

“The UCAL PG Flex Linoleum Season 9 opening ceremony brought the MCU community together. Our student-athletes have sparked something special as they have strengthened our bonds, inspired human expression and athletic exploration,” said Dr. Renato C. Tanchoco, Jr., MCU President.

Javier Lopez-Sanz Chulvi, MCU Strategic Advisor for Athletics, emphasized that the university’s preparation extends across all sport entries this year.

“This year’s opening ceremony highlights the MCU flavor we want to bring to the court. It’s all about determination, hope, and unity. As a community, we have been working more closely, more ambitiously, and with greater discipline to deliver performances that will redefine the UCAL experience,” remarked Lopez-Sanz Chulvi.

With the opening festivities concluded, official tournament action for UCAL Season 9 is now underway across San Juan and Metro Manila venues.

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