Cheers, applause and heartfelt farewells echoed through the Marcos Hall of the University of Northern Philippines (UNP) in Vigan City as the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA-1) Regional Games and Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC-1) Culture & Arts Festival drew to a triumphant close on February 27, 2026.
The closing ceremony featured the week’s most memorable moments before distinguished guests delivered their respective messages.
The resounding success of SCUAA-I 2026 is largely attributable to the leadership and unwavering commitment of PASUC-I President Dr. Elbert M. Galas and Officers, whose strategic guidance and dedication to excellence ensured the seamless execution of the regional games and set a benchmark for future editions of the competition.
Dr. Galas, wearing his dual hats as PSU President and PASUC-I President, delivered the welcome remarks, reflecting on the successful five-day competition.
“It is our hope that the games we played for the past five days strengthened camaraderie among our universities and deepened our commitment to holistic education where mind, body and spirt were nurtured in harmony. Para sa amin, lahat kayo panalo! Congratulations sa inyong lahat!” Dr. Galas said.
Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chair Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, a true blue Ilocana, graced the event as Guest of Honor and Speaker, with an inspiring message emphasizing the role of athletics and cultural arts in holistic education and nation-building, noting that the SCUAA-PASUC 1 Games exemplify CHED’s role in developing not just academically excellent students, but well-rounded individuals who embody the values of discipline, teamwork and cultural appreciation.
Awarding of the winners ensued. (see separate story)
This year marked the continuity of the SCUAA-PASUC 1 tradition, Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna, President of the University of Northern Philippines, led the Turn-over of SCUAA-PASUC 1 Hosting to Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), with Dr. Mario P. Obrero, President of ISPSC, formally delivering the Acceptance of Hosting for SCUAA-PASUC 1 2027 and pledging his institution’s commitment to continuing the tradition of excellence.
The ceremonial turnover was witnessed by PASUC-1 President Dr. Elbert M. Galas, Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. of MMSU, and Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. of DMMMSU, while Hon. Eric D. Singson, Mayor of the City of Candon, also graced the occasion, manifesting local government support for regional educational and athletic development.
Dr. Rolando B. Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs of the University of Northern Philippines, delivered the Closing Remarks, challenging all participants to carry forward the values learned through competition by reminding them that while medals shine brightly, the character built, friendships forged, and memories created will last a lifetime, and that as they return to their respective institutions, they serve as ambassadors of excellence, unity, and sportsmanship.
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