By Abdulrasid T. Lucman
Mindanao State University (MSU) Main Campus is gearing up for its highly anticipated Sports Fest 2025 for administrative personnel, scheduled for September 2-3, 2025, at the Dimaporo Gymnasium and University Tennis Courts in Marawi City. The two-day athletic extravaganza, themed “Palarong Pasiklaban ng Diwa at Talento”, promises to be a spectacular celebration of sportsmanship and university pride that holds special significance as it coincides with MSU’s 64th Founding Anniversary, part of the “MSU@64: Inklusibong Pamantasan” celebration. Under the leadership of MSU System President Atty. Paisalin P.D. Tago, CPA, the event aims to strengthen the university’s commitment to holistic education through sports and cultural activities.
The festivities was officially commence on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 8:00 AM with an elaborate opening ceremony at the Dimaporo Gymnasium, featuring a rich blend of traditional and ceremonial elements designed to honor both the university’s heritage and its athletic aspirations. The ceremony begun with an invocation, followed by the Philippine National Anthem and the Bangsamoro Hymn, reflecting the university’s respect for both national and regional identity. Key program segments include welcome remarks by AVP Oding L. Ma-amor, Assistant Vice President for Planning and Development and Chairperson of Sports Fest 2025, participant introduction led by Dir. Henri Marc H. Ele, Director of Cultural Affairs Office, officials introduction by Dir. Abdulrasid T. Lucman, Director of NSTP, a message of support from Dr. Mirian P. Aman, Dean of CSPEAR, and a presidential address by Atty. Paisalin P.D. Tago, CPA.
A significant portion of the opening ceremony will be dedicated to formal oaths and declarations that emphasize the values of fair play and excellence, including an athletes oath administered by Dir. Ronald M. Silvosa, Director of ICTC, an officials oath conducted by Pearl Dawn Limpahan, Faculty member of CSPEAR, and the games declaration by President Tago, officially opening the competition. The ceremony will conclude with a ceremonial serve by President Tago and AVP Ma-amor, followed by the traditional “Hataw” performance by CSPEAR students and the commencement of games proper. Prof. Nasif L. Macaslang, Faculty member of ILS, served as Master of Ceremony, ensuring smooth coordination throughout the event, while the involvement of various academic departments, particularly the College of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (CSPEAR), underscores MSU’s integrated approach to education and athletics.
The Sports Fest 2025 represents more than just athletic competition; it embodies MSU’s vision of inclusive education and community building, providing a platform for faculty and staff to showcase their talents while promoting healthy competition and school spirit. The diverse range of sports activities depicted in the promotional materials suggests comprehensive competition categories that will cater to various athletic interests and skill levels, from traditional team sports to individual competitions. As MSU Main Campus prepares to host this significant sporting event, the university community eagerly anticipates two days of intense competition, outstanding sportsmanship, and memorable performances that promise to strengthen bonds within the MSU community while celebrating the institution’s proud heritage and commitment to excellence in all endeavors.
With its strategic location at the Dimaporo Gymnasium and comprehensive programming, the event is positioned to become a highlight of MSU’s academic calendar, setting new standards for future sports festivals for employees and reinforcing the university’s role as a leader in higher education in Mindanao. The “Palarong Pasiklaban ng Diwa at Talento” theme perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the event – a true competition where both athletic prowess and character shine, creating lasting memories for all participants and spectators alike.
