The 2024 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) Sports Festival in Western Visayas culminated on December 20, 2024 but its impact among participants is seen to last a lifetime.
According to Dr. Herman Lagon, director of Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications (PAMMCO) of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), the event is more than a sports festival.
“It celebrates unity and inclusivity for Western Visayas and beyond," Dr. Lagon said.
RSCUAA VI 2024 carried the theme: “One Western Visayas: Promoting Peace, Inclusivity, and Well-Being through Sports” which, according to Dr. Lagon, captures beautifully how competition can unite people and strengthen connections.
It was also learned from Lagon that ISUFST hosted the event for the first time in its 68-year history.
The six-day sports event saw the gathering of 3,500 athletes, coaches, school officials, and organizers from 13 state universities, representing 115,000 students in the six provinces in Western Visayas.
“It is a celebration of shared values like respect, collaboration, and camaraderie. This year [2024] carries even greater significance as Negros Occidental competes for the last time under Region VI, making the message of unity all the more heartfelt and inspiring,” Lagon said in a post on ISUFST's official social media account.
"Through sports and cultural exchange, RSCUAA 2024 bridges divides and reminds everyone that talent and excellence know no boundaries. By promoting balance, resilience, and camaraderie, the games, regardless of who wins, leave a lasting legacy of harmony and belonging, proving that sports can unite us all," he underscored.
The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) Technobees reigned supreme in the said sportsfest, claiming their fifth consecutive overall championship in a closely contested battle.
Capiz State University (CapSU) Stingrays finished a commendable second, edging West Visayas State University (WVSU) West Marals in a competition showcasing the best of Western Visayas athletics.
Lagon elucidated that the RSCUAA VI 2024 Sports Festival was an extraordinary celebration of talent, teamwork, and determination.
Competition in 42 sporting events at 22 venues by over 3,500 athletes, coaches, school officials, and organizers transpired into an unforgettable celebration of skill and will.
