Quezon City, Philippines — In celebration of World Basketball Day and in line with its 30th Founding Anniversary, MarSU President and National PASUC Auditor, Prof. Diosdado P. Zulueta attended the opening ceremony of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) All-Star Basketball Friendship Games today, November 11, 2024, at Amoranto Stadium, Quezon City.

(Photo by J. Breganza)

The ceremony was attended by Hon. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, CHED officials led by its Chairperson Hon. J. Prospero E. de Vera III, PASUC officials led by President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, and NCR University Presidents. The top athletic associations in higher education, including UAAP, NCAA, PRISAA, LCUAA, NAASCU, and SCUAA, also took part in this inaugural sports activity. Programs commenced with opening formalities and welcome by NUP PEP Squad and NU Dance Company, Parade of Athletes, National Anthem and Doxology hosted by Tarlac State University.

(Photo by J. Breganza)

It was followed by an opening message from Chair Popoy who emphasized the privilege to host and organize the 1st CHED All-Star Basketball Friendship Games. This is to showcase and enhance the athletes at our school in public and private universities. We are one united family in higher education. Also, CHED is committed to promoting sports, competitions, management, and tourism.

Chair Popoy delivers his message to the crowd. (Photo by J. Breganza)

On the other hand, the message from the Keynote Speaker, Hon. Bong Go focused on being ready to get into sports, stay away from drugs to keep us healthy and fit. Hon. Bong Go, expressed his full support for the sports of both private and public schools in the country, including health and youth.

(Photo by J. Breganza)

The main event of the program was the exhibition game of UAAP vs NCAA, in Game 1 SCUAA vs PRISAA and Game 2 LCUAA vs NAASCU. The ceremony aims to recognize their remarkable achievement as overall champion in men’s basketball during the 2023 National SCUAA Games.

(Photo by J. Breganza)

(J. Breganza)