ISAA OPENING CEREMONY

The crowd's cheers echoed through the air like a symphony of excitement as students from different schools raised their voices in unison. The collective heartbeat of athletes boomed like a rhythmic drum, each beat resonating with the pulse of their school spirits. As the culmination of months of preparation and dedication, the Inter-Scholastic Athletic Association (ISAA) Season 15 Opening Ceremony unfolded on October 26, 2023, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan, Metro Manila, hosted by one of the competing schools, Air Link International Aviation College (ALIAC). With a compelling theme, "Moving on Stronger Together 2.0," the atmosphere inside the arena was nothing short of dramatic, setting the stage for a new season that promised to be both exhilarating and unforgettable, and continues to thrive and grow, fostering a community of sportsmanship, unity, and excellence.

The ceremony commenced with the graceful introduction of the esteemed ISAA Boards, a wave of applause accompanying their dignified walk to the stage. Among them, PATTS College of Aeronautics' very own Engr. Jose Eduardo S. Valdez (College President and COO), Dr. Emelita I. Javier (VP for Student Affairs), and Mr. Benjamin V. Hernandez Jr. (Athletics Director) made a regal entrance onto the court, their head held high, carrying the undaunted spirit of the PATTSeans. The subsequent procession unfolded as a dazzling parade, showcasing each participating school along with its enchanting muses and distinguished representatives. The lineup of institutions featured Air Link International Aviation College, Immaculate Conception College, ICCT Colleges Foundation, LA Consolacion College Manila, Manila Adventist College, Philippine Women's University, St. Dominic College of Asia, Treston Colleges, University of Asia and the Pacific, and World Citi Colleges. Meanwhile, PATTS athletes marched undauntingly with Ms. Julianne Rose Reyes, the college’s muse, who epitomized beauty and grace leading them to the center of the arena.

"In this season, may you not only represent your schools but also your unwavering spirit of determination and resilience […] and remember that it is the accumulated strength that allows us to move both as an individual and as a community," emphasized Atty. Gomeriano V. Amurao (ALIAC President and CEO) in his heartfelt welcome address. He further urged each school to embrace diversity, encouraging a mutual learning experience that allows the rich tapestries of talents to weave the season's narrative. Extending sincere congratulations and gratitude, he acknowledged each participating school's coaches, mentors, teachers, and support staff for their invaluable role in instilling the core values of teamwork and perseverance within the athletes.

The enchanting spectacle continued with the introduction of the team's muses. Among them, Ms. Reyes commanded the court as if it was her own stage, effortlessly captivating the crowd with her graceful presence. Her exceptional blend of beauty and poise earned her the title of the best muse and the coveted title of Ms. ISAA 2023. Through her captivating aura, she indeed won the hearts of everyone present, leaving an indelible mark on the ceremony.

Following this, a solemn oath of sportsmanship was administered by a representative from the defending champion of Season 14, symbolizing the essence of fair play - a cornerstone of ISAA. Subsequently, the grandeur reached new heights with a spectacular collaborative performance by talented artists from each participating school. The arena was transformed into a vibrant and mesmerizing circus, a testament to the creativity and artistry of the performers who infused the space with color, rhythm, and wonder - it was the greatest show indeed.

As the final echo of the performance subsided, the ceremony reached its pinnacle with Mr. Andres Cristobal (ISAA Board President and LCCM Sports Director) officially declaring the commencement of ISAA Season 15. Addressing the athletes, he proclaimed, "Athletes, kayo po ang bida rito." The moment reached its symbolic conclusion with the Ceremonial Toss by the Board Members, marking not just the official start of an exhilarating season filled with promise and sportsmanship but also affirming the journey ahead where strength, unity, and resilience would forge a narrative of triumph and camaraderie.