FEU promises inclusive, community-centered UAAP Season 89

As the University of Santo Tomas (UST) formally closed its hosting of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 recently, Far Eastern University immediately turned its attention toward preparations for UAAP Season 89.

During the closing ceremony, UST Season 88 chairman Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D. officially handed the UAAP flag to incoming season host and Season 89 chairman Juan Miguel R. Montinola of FEU.

“As we close this chapter, we do not do so with an ending but with the passing of the torch. We now entrust the next season, UAAP Season 89 to [FEU]… To the FEU Tamaraws, we stand with you, ready to support you as you carry forward the UAAP legacy into its next great story,” said Ang.

“The mantra of the UAAP is holistic education, including sports development, sportsmanship, and fair competition. We are happy to note that all eight schools achieved their championships across the 60 events in the UAAP. This is a manifestation of good [and fair] competition,” said Montinola.

Montinola added that FEU intends to build on that foundation as it takes on hosting duties. “[We humbly accept] the hosting of Season 89 and aspire to continue elevating the student-athlete experience. [After all], UAAP is truly for everyone.”

Before the turnover, the FEU Dance Company complemented the impressive performance of the UST Symphony Orchestra with its kinetic interpretation of Summer from Vivaldi's 4 Seasons. 

Shortly after the turnover, FEU unveiled a teaser video offering a glimpse of what to expect next season.

The video concluded with appearances from renowned personalities Aristotle “Gloc-9” Pollisco and Jose Marie “Vice Ganda” Viceral, signaling the university’s intention to deliver a season centered on culture, entertainment, and community.

“Well, as our president said, what UST did this year was amazing, spectacular. In terms of the opening and closing, it’s something we’ve never seen before. So, we’ll try to live up to that,” said incoming UAAP president Mark Molina. “We’ll hopefully, in our own way, do something that the UAAP and FEU community will be very proud of. Preparations are already underway. We’re opening on September 12 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, and we’re already preparing for that.”

The theme for Season 89: “For Everyone, UAAP” was also unveiled.

According to Molina, the theme aims to highlight that the league goes far beyond the athletes and the competition itself, recognizing the larger community that helps shape the UAAP experience.

“Our theme is ‘For Everyone, UAAP.’ When you look at past seasons, everything is centered on the athletes, the sport, the performances, and the competition. But the UAAP is beyond that,” Molina explained.

 “The UAAP is not just about the athletes. Most of you are not athletes who played in the UAAP, but you’re so invested in the league. There are also so many people in the community—teachers, drivers who bring the teams to the games, ball boys, students, classmates, and fans. We want to highlight their contribution to the UAAP as well,” he said.

While the athletes and competitions will remain at the heart of the league, FEU hopes Season 89 will place greater emphasis on the role of the wider UAAP community in shaping the league’s identity and culture.

The university also aims to champion inclusivity and social awareness through the season’s initiatives.

“'For Everyone, UAAP' is our reminder that the league should be a space where every sector feels seen, valued, and represented,” Molina said. “We want Season 89 to help promote inclusivity, inspire compassion, and encourage the community to become more socially aware and involved.”

The Season 89 host also plans to continue pushing for the growth of women’s sports. Among the initiatives being discussed is the possible inclusion of two guest schools in the high school girls’ division.

“The UAAP is not just about sports; the UAAP is about inclusivity,” Molina said.