EJ Obiena leads torch bearers for UAAP Season 88 opening

Filipino Olympian and pole vaulter EJ Obiena led the torch relay and cauldron lighting during the opening ceremony of UAAP Season 88.

With the theme “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” host school University of Santo Tomas (UST) opened the season in a “Paskuhan”-inspired celebration, incorporating elements of Thomasian student life, including the iconic Welcome Walk on campus.

“I started my career here at the UAAP, and now I'm coming full circle, coming back and finally being able to start the whole thing. It really is such an honor,” Obiena shared.

“I'm just a kid who competed for UST, trying to deliver the points I believed I could contribute. Now, being able to open such an event is a huge moment for me—not just because it's full circle, but because I was once part of this. I was one of those kids. And now, I get to stand in front of the next generation.”

Joining Obiena in the torch relay were UST basketball champion Jervy Cruz, volleyball star Sisi Rondina, and martial artist Sydney Sy.

Meanwhile, Thomasian athletes led the Oath of Sportsmanship, including: Jasmin Simpao (taekwondo), Noelito Jose (fencing), Eya Laure, Josh Ybañez, and Jau Umandal (volleyball), Nic Cabañero and Kent Pastrana (basketball), and Tachiana Mangin (taekwondo).

The opening ceremony also featured performances from celebrities Kean Cipriano, Earl Agustin, Rob Deniel, Lola Amour, and Sarah Geronimo, who headlined the concert that followed the program.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News