Written by Krisha Aira Calaunan/StoryLab
The University of the Philippines Cebu Fighting Maroons joined student-athletes from across Cebu as the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) officially opened its 2026 season with the theme “One spirit, one goal! Rising together in excellence!” on August 29 at the Cebu Coliseum.
Joining delegations from 18 participating schools, the UP Cebu Fighting Maroons took part inthe opening ceremonies ready to represent not only the athletic talent of the University but also the camaraderie, discipline, and sportsmanship expected of an Iskolar ng Bayan.
Leading this year’s foundation is CESAFI’s new president, Fr. Francisco Antonio T. Estapada, SVD of the University of San Carlos, who discussed the importance of the values that athletes develop through their participation in sports. Heemphasized that championships are not defined solely by methods or scores, but also by the character athletes build and the people they inspire along the way. His message served as a reminder that while competition may place athletes on opposing sides of the court, the values of discipline, respect, and sportsmanship remain shared among all participants.
To formally inaugurate another season of competition, the participating athletes took their pledge before the ceremonial lighting of the CESAFI torch. Fr. Estapada then officially declared CESAFI 2026 open, followed by a ceremonial handshake among the participating athletes. The gesture marked the beginning of another season where competition and camaraderie will go hand in hand.
Beyond the sporting events, the opening ceremony also featured Miss CESAFI 2026, one of the event’s most anticipated highlights. Representing UP Cebu were Ansherina Alquizar from the High School Division and Christine Mae Saladaga of BA Psychology program from the College Division.
The event became even more vibrant with performances from different schools, each bringing its own dance style and energy to the celebration. Among the participating performers was the UP DanceSport Team, which joined fellow university groups in showcasing their talents. The performances culminated in a dance palabas, a unity dance set to CESAFI’s original soundtrack that highlighted the shared spirit among all schools.
With the opening ceremonies concluded, the spotlight now shifts from celebration to competition as CESAFI 2026 officially gets underway this week. For the UP Cebu Fighting Maroons, the season marks another opportunity to pursue championships while carrying with them the values that extend beyond the scoreboard..
The Fighting Maroons will take their respective playing fields not only to compete for victories, but also to represent UP Cebu through excellence, sportmanship, and the spirit of an Iskolar ng Bayan.