IGNITED LEAP
by JOHN RENZ DELIM
UNO-R Supreme Student Government President Denver Fernandez lit the ceremonial cauldron to formally commence the week-long University Cup (U-Cup) 2025 during the opening ceremony held at the University Amphitheater, May 5.
“As we give our all and our best this University Cup, let us remember to practice the spirit of sportsmanship and competence in every game,” Fernandez said.
Student-athletes and councils from the seven colleges along with NOPSSCEA and PRISAA winners led the parade of athletes.
“More than a Sportsfest — this [U-Cup 2025] is a celebration of camaraderie, discipline, and the recollect spirit that binds us together,” Rev. Fr. Joel Alve, OAR said.
In addition, National PRISAA Table Tennis Gold medalist
In a fierce battle of mind and body, four colleges bravely rose to the challenge to prove their strength on the field during the first-ever Raider’s Competition as part of the University Cup (U-Cup) 2025 at the University Football
“It was a great platform for students who love to engage in challenges. Aside from it being difficult, our team managed to keep the spirit high, which kept us from leading the race,” Tigers’ team leader Lhean Monterona said.
The Dragons, on the other hand, displayed a firm and resolute spirit during the race despite being under
“Our motivation as College of Criminal Justice Education [CCJE] is that our performance should reflect our character, showing how CCJE shapes its students to excel in events like this,” Dragons’ team leader Hans Joel de la Peña said.
Furthermore, the competition consisted of five main and four sub-events, which included Team Run, Obstacle Dash, Man Carry, Tire Flip, and The Final Piece, where
teams must complete a puzzle with the missing pieces they have carried throughout the race.
“It’s nice to experience a new set of games this U-Cup, especially those that test our resilience and intelligence, and it’s an honor to participate on behalf of my college, the College of Education,” Phoenix’s Daniel Sanchez said.
Out of seven colleges, only four bravely took on the challenge: the Dragons, the Phoenixes, the Griffins, and the Tigers, each team charged through the obstacle course, from sprinting speedily to crawling under barriers.
“Since it is a new addition to the list of events in this year’s U-Cup, we aim to provide students with a memorable experience that brings positive energy and encourages healthy competition in a fun and supportive way,” Raider’s Competition project lead Jessea Kyle Marie said.
Moreover, the final set of winners will be posted on the official UNO-R Supreme Student Government Facebook page.
Tigers secure badminton wins in singles finals
College of Engineering (CEN)
Tigers claimed the men’s singles championship title, while the Lady Tigers placed first runner-up in the women’s singles during the final matchup of the badminton tournament held at the United Shuttlers Badminton Center,
Tigers Rossyll Franz Atido secured a 21–14 win with a backhand shot against the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) Dragons in the first half of the men’s singles final, while Dragons’ Joebelle Salustiano’s failed drop shot in the second half resulted in a 21–19 loss, giving the championship title to the Tigers.
“His last serve was unfortunate because our rallies were really good but I believe we both did our best. Overall, I enjoyed our game,” Tigers
Tigers Salazar in women’s singles endured a rally against the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) Griffins that extended to a fourth set, ending when the Lady Tigers’ shot went out of bounds and sealed a 21–16 championship win for the Griffins.
“Even though I anticipated that it would be a rough game as I also had a rough start, I did not lose hope, probably, it’s the sportsmanship in me,” Griffins Keshia Villarias said.
Moreover, the Tigers in the badminton mixed doubles match did not advance to the quarterfinals, enabling the CCJE Dragons to secure the championship title with a 21–13 win over the College of Information Technology (CIT) Falcons.
DENSIL FAITH PADILLA
by VINCY ANNE TROPA
UNITED FRONT. As the game heats up, Orange Tigers took an early lead at the Raider’s Competition first event, the “Team Run”, at the University Field, May 5. ◘ photo by ANICAR FRIAS
SMASHED WITH UPROAR. Orange Tiger, Rossyll Franz Atido eyes the shuttlecock as he makes an offensive strike during the badminton championship game held at the United Shuttlers Badminton Center, May 5. ◘ photo by JAN DANIEL BIÑAS
BLAZING START. UNORSSGO President Denver Fernandez led the opening of the University Cup 2025 held at the University Amphitheater, May 5 ◘ photo by ANICAR FRIAS
Lady Serpents’ dominance leads to triumph over Lady Griffins
Red Dragons trample Pink Serpents, 61-34
by ANGELEE VALENCIA
Lady Dragons overpowered the zone defense of the Lady Serpents and clawed their way into victory with a score of 61-34 during the women’s basketball playoffs at the University Covered Court, May 6.
The Dragon cagers controlled the game as they dashed against the constant defense of the opposing team, with an evident gap of 27 points from the total score of 61.
Dragon cager Patricia Castillon displayed a promising play with persistent assists and rapid steals, scoring 13 points in total, paving the way for them with four points in the first half of the game and nine points in the second half with a total score of 34.
“Trust and clear communication
helped us win our second game, and knowing our hard work paid off made us happy. Also, it’s a great feeling to be declared as the player of the game,” Dragon cager Castillon said.
Moreover, the Pink Serpents slithered their way back as point guard Roxan Marie Juanico counteracted the attacks with her rapid steals and swift passes as she secured points for the team.
“Even though we failed to barge our way into victory, I am grateful to my teammates for trying their best to secure points. Without their assistance I wouldn’t have been able to counteract their offense,” Serpent point guard Juanico said.
In addition, both teams played a head-to-head match at the start
Lady Serpents rams Lady Griffins in a crushing 2-0 defeat
The Lady Serpents displayed precision by striking a decisive 25-20 victory, showcasing their dominant floor defense and lethal offensive executions against the Lady Griffins during the women’s volleyball tournament held at the University Covered Court, May 6.
“As a captain, I encourage my team by cheering them on–that despite the errors, we still need to think that we can still do this and we can make it,” Lady Serpents captain Franchette San Miguel said.
Initially, the Lady Serpents ignited the first set with aggressive offensive strikes, coupling a stifling floor defense with cut shots that left the Lady Griffins scrambling, ultimately clinching the set with a commanding 25-17 score.
Lady Serpents unleashed powerful serves to taunt and challenge the Lady Griffins, who were trying to bridge the scoring gap, ultimately securing the set with 25-20.
because playing in front of many people gives pressure. But I’m very much thankful to my teammates for encouraging me and the other players, reminding us to always smile and enjoy the game,” Lady Griffin middle blocker Eunice Abegail Cepida said.
Serpents are gearing up for their match against Lady Phoenix, May 8.
of the game as the Lady Serpents formed a firm defense against the formidable charge of the Lady Dragons.
“It was difficult to deal with the opponent in the first half of the game since we still don’t know their gameplay yet, but luckily we got to strategize and coordinate in the second half of the game,” Dragon cager Irish Lopez said.
Furthermore, both teams will play a separate game against other opponents, Yellow Griffins against the Pink Serpents and the Red Dragons against the Gray Falcons on May 8.
6 teams dominates ML qualifying rounds
by THERESA MAE DULMAN
A total of six out of 24 teams of Mobile Legend gamers passed the qualifying rounds during the first day of “Break Out! E-sports Tournament” at TNC Bacolod, May 6.
Advancing to the quarterfinal were teams Holi Moli, Piso, Famica Esports, Milfyways, Wonder Pets, and Teamprano Puli.
“Our run in this tournament was clearly surprising for us too, since our only goal was to enjoy and focus on winning, because of teamwork, we’re able to win,” second-year civil engineering student and Holi Moli member John Christian Llena said.
The three-day tournament featured 266 players for video games consisting of Mobile Legends, Valorant, League of Legends, Call of Duty Mobile, and Tekken 8.
“The goal of the tournament is to develop UNO-Rians’ ability in camaraderie, and sportsmanship,” project lead Rayne Christian Contrevida said.
Furthermore, the winning teams will receive a Php 10,000 cash of pool prize.
The event was a collaborative effort between UNORSSGO, TNC Bacolod, Ichiban Esports, and UNOArts.
Tigers rule, leave Phoenixes in goalless slump
by DENSIL FAITH PADILLA
The Orange Tigers displayed ferocious defense and dynamic footwork over the Blue Phoenixes in a 3-0 match during the men’s football tournament at the University Football Field, May 6.
“At first, communicating with my team was difficult, but by the middle of the first half, we were able to coordinate well and scored a goal,” Tigers’ team captain and midfielder Rowel Hautea, Jr., said.
Moreover, the Blue Phoenixes also showcased strong defense and tight strategies on the field, making it difficult for the Tigers to score a goal until the 30th minute.
“Our game against CEN [College of Engineering] was intense but fun,
and the challenging part was that we managed to sustain it and let them hit a goal only in the middle of the first half,” Phoenixes’ team captain Daniel Junsay said.
During the second half of the game, the Orange Tigers asserted their dominance on the field, leading to their first win in the preliminary match.
“One of my teammates took a free kick, but the keeper deflected it; luckily, the ball came to me, so I took the chance to score,” Tigers’ winger Jan Lorenz Bacusa said.
Furthermore, Bacusa delivered a final offensive strike that sealed the match with a stirring 3-0 victory.
ALL WIRED UP. The Blazing Tiger gamers competed at the qualifying round of Esports playing Mobile Legends against the College of Business and Accountancy, May 6. ◘ photo by JAN DANIEL BIÑAS
by RESHYL REIN COLONIA
POWER LAUNCH. Pink Serpent Clarie Marinay started the rally with a strong serve during the CAMHS vs CBA women’s volleyball game at the University Covered Court, May 6 ◘ photo by ANICAR FRIAS
FIERY TRIUMPH. Red Dragon Princes Jane Solitano shattered the defense of the Pink Serpents, fueling CCJE’s dominant 61-34 win in the women’s basketball game at the University Covered Court, May 6. ◘ photo by KARL JOSH COLLARIN
ONE SHOT. Orange tiger Rojh Jhon Advincula fires a powerful shot towards the goal during the men’s football tournament held at the University Football Field, May 6. ◘ photo by RHYZA GLEN FORNOLLES
COED’s Adeva champions inclusivity, triumphs as 1st UNO-R Beacon
by ARBEN JEYK DA-ANOY
Glady Mae Adeva from the College of Education (COED) claimed the title for the first-ever UNO-R Beacon 2025 during its Grand Finale on the third day of the University Cup ‘25, at the University Gymnasium, May 7.
Adeva garnered Best Advocacy Presentation and Best Bioreel awards through her advocacy on children with special needs entitled “Little Hands, Big Impact: Outreach and Support for Children with Special Needs.”
“I have realized that many people can speak up for their own interests, needs, and rights. But all of us, let us ponder, ‘How about children with special needs?’,” Adeva said during the question and answer segment.
The titleholder emphasized that her advocacy extends beyond the Beacon itself, it is more on her drive to advocate for people with special needs as a special needs education student.
“I didn’t just start it [her advocacy] at a pageant or UNO-R Beacon, but, I’ve been doing this advocacy for quite some time. ‘Cause for me, it’s a lifelong commitment that I had,” Adeva said.
by JOHN RENZ DELIM
Red Dragon Spikers handed the Gray Falcon Spikers their first defeat with a dominant 2-0 sweep during the elimination rounds of the men’s volleyball tournament at the University Covered Court, May 6.
Red Dragon’s team captain and opposite hitter Noah John Isaac Dela Cruz anchored the attacks of the team with his sharp cross-court hits that penetrated the defense of the Falcons throughout the match.
“We carry a lot of pressure as defending champions, so I had to remind the team to just play with our hearts out and cheer up one another every time we make an
Dragons smother Falcons, extend sets in deuce
error,” Dragons Dela Cruz said.
Both teams fought in a series of deadlocks from the outset but the Gray Falcon’s struggled with their defense at the first set allowing the Red Dragons to seal the deal with a 27-25 win.
Furthermore, the Red Dragons pulled off dynamic clutch plays in the second set, forcing the Gray Falcons to commit back-to-back errors before entering the crucial round.
“In the crucial parts of the match, our costly errors provided free points to the opponents, as well as our middle blockers who were
struggling with both attacks and defenses, greatly contributed to our loss,” Falcons’ team captain and open hitter Jonwell Sepida said.
Dela Cruz huddled the team after a deuce which led to a surprise attack point from Red Dragons middle blocker Mark John Bereña to end the set at 26-24.
Moreover, the Red Dragons will continue their pursuit of four consecutive final appearances as they claim the top seed in their bracket in the elimination rounds.
tsasks
compiled by PRINCESS ALEXIS MORAÑA
hich activity gets you hyped up the most?
JERICHO JAMES CONLU, BSCE IV
I am looking forward to the cheer squad, as it is the main event of the campus and students, since it is the most awaited event.
ARIANNE JAN SARIEGO, BSPsych IV
I’m really looking forward to the cheerdance, it always gets me hyped. The energy from the crowd and the performers are just different. Since this is my last U-Cup, I’m hoping it’ll be a memorable one.
JOHN KENNETH SALINAS, BSCrim IV
For me, what really hyped me up was Arnis. Since I’m playing as well, and in yesterdays’ gameplay, there was a lot of audience [watching], then every time there was a hit, everyone would shout which kinda makes them hype, it just felt really fun.
JUVILYN D. AZUD, BPEd II
I think volleyball because as a volleyball fan, I get hyped up to watch it, especially when the scores are close, and when the players are good, they show their confidence when playing, that is when I get hyped up in [watching] volleyball games.
LYNETTE DESENDARIO, BSBA III
Probably our sport, which is basketball. I enjoy playing [basketball] everytime there is a game, that’s what hypes me up and since this is my last [game] for CBA this year.
ANGELICA FERRERA JARDIO, BSN II
[It would be] volleyball women and basketball men, since volleyball is my favorite [game], and the basketball match was exciting. I’m thrilled to look forward to what college will proceed to the final round.
ERICK AGABON, BSCS III
Yesterday’s chess, because I’m playing chess, [and] it hypes me up. Since I have nothing to do, it’s time to show what CIT can do.
Moreover, The UNO-R Beacon Project Lead Jonathan Aguilar
ADVOCATE FOR RIGHTS. Glady Mae Adeva, College of Education representative, triumphed against 4 other colleges in a battle of advocacy, voice, and empowerment at the University Gymnasium, May 7. ◘ photo by JAN DANIEL BIÑAS
BEATEN DEFENSE. CCJE Dragon Noah Dela Cruz hits through the Gray Falcons’ block, gaining a point during the volleyball match at the University Covered Court, May 6. ◘ photo by RHYZA GLEN FORNOLLES