BAROTAC NUEVO, Iloilo—The Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) 2024 Sports Festival and Conference officially commenced its six days sporting competitions in a vibrant opening ceremony at Tamasak Arena on December 15.

 

Converging 13 state universities and colleges in Western Visayas, approximately 3,000 student-athletes will vie for a platform finish in 42 sporting events covering 22 venues.

 

“This event is not just a testament of academic achievement but likewise the unity by various state universities represented and gathered here today,” said Senator Francis Tolentino. “I ask all of you that each game is a game that brings honor not just to yourselves but to your school and community, your families as well,” he added.

 

Hosted by Iloilo State University of Fisheries, Science, and Technology (ISUFST), this year’s theme, "One Western Visayas: Promoting Peace, Inclusivity, and Well-Being through Sports,” focuses mainly on fostering mutual respect and holistic development.

 

“We believe in the value of sports for all of our youth. It teaches you not only how to be good in each sport and every sport that you participate in; it also teaches you important life lessons. To succeed in any sport requires the same traits to succeed in life,” said Congresswoman Camille Villar.

Furthermore, the 13 participating state universities and colleges include: Aklan State University (ASU), Capiz State University (CSU), Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU), Central Philippines State University (CPSU), Guimaras State University (GSU), Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), Iloilo State University of Fisheries, Science, and Technology (ISUFST), Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), Philippine Normal University (PNU), State University of Northern Negros (SUNN), University of Antique (UA), University of the Philippines-Visayas (UPV), and West Visayas State University (WVSU).

 

This year’s conduct of the said activity will display intense gameplay as athletes aim to surpass their last year’s performance with high hopes of representing the region in the National State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (NSCUAA) Sports Festival and Conference.