A new era for athletics  at UP Cebu

As we emerge from a global pandemic that has spanned three long years, one significant challenge I saw is figuring out how to rekindle our bonds now that we are resuming normal activities again. The reduced outdoor exposure, restricted physical activities, less in-person socializing --these have had an impact on our mental and physical well-being, intelligence, and social skills.

I wondered: How can we restore the sense of community that was lost during the pandemic? What could effectively help us get back on our feet swiftly, or inspire us to take on the world again? The answer might surprise you --it lies in athletics which, in the context of this piece, refers to the broader range of sports and activities within school or university sports programs.

It was then that I appreciated the wisdom behind the University of the Philippines Cebu's initiative to revive and enhance its varsity program, especially given that this constituent unit of UP, for many years, was not predominantly known for its athletics program.

In the context of our collective struggle for normalcy, the significance of UP Cebu's varsity program, a flagship initiative of Atty. Leo B. Malagar, chancellor of UP Cebu, cannot be overstated. Re-establishing physical connections, working together towards shared goals, and rekindling our competitive spirit --people, especially the youth, long for all these after years of isolation.

Studies show that participation in school- and community-based sports increases the likelihood that students are active academically and socially. Sports represent a critical aspect of a well-rounded education, and indeed, a fulfilling life which were largely put on hold during the pandemic. It is, if I may dare say, a cornerstone for rebuilding our sense of community.

Recently, UP Cebu introduced the Varsity Athletics Admission System (VAAS). In a press briefing which I helped organize last Wednesday, UP Cebu announced that applicants for admission to UP, through the VAAS, will no longer need to pass the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT) or the High School Admission Test (HSAT) to gain admission. Approximately 250 slots have been allotted for the VAAS program, but adjustments are possible.

“Students can choose a course within UP Cebu, provided they pass the admission quota required by their chosen course and college, or they may enroll in the new Associate Arts in Sports Studies which is being developed and slated for launch in the next semester,” UP Cebu announced in a press statement.

“This is not just about UP Cebu, but also for regional sports. With VAAS, we offer the opportunity for athletes to enroll in Cebu," said Chancellor Malagar. "Importantly, it provides the youth with the opportunity to train at UP, not just in athletics but also in academics.” Malagar made it clear that VAAS is not a loophole to bypass the UPCAT. Rather, it is a recognition that in some cases, a student's talent and passion may not always conform to conventional admission pathways.

"The value of a UP diploma is irrefutable. Athletes will not compete forever, they will have to lean on a degree,” Malagar said. “Why UP Cebu? Based on our experience, athletes who have to leave Cebu for Manila often feel homesick, which could impact their mental health. For those from Manila, the beaches are far away from their schools. Cebu has a lot to offer, including our local delicacy, lechon. We also have a vibrant cultural scene," he said.

BA Political Science student Elle Shea Ybañez, in her testimonial during the press conference, said that balancing academics and sports in UP's rigorous academic environment is indeed a big challenge. Yet she appreciated the university's investment in finding capable coaches and also praised the hands-on approach of Chancellor Malagar. As team captain of the UP Cebu swimming team, Ybañez has had an impressive record of two silvers and one bronze in last year’s CESAFI swimming competitions. Her team also captured 16 medals including one gold and six silvers during the 1st MMIS Invitational Swimming Competition in Cebu last April 29.

Youth sports activities, I believe, are crucial in healing the scars of the pandemic on our communities. Sports is social in nature. It requires interaction, team spirit, mutual support, and competition. UP Cebu’s renewed focus on the varsity program shows foresight and an understanding of the importance of sports in holistic development.

Kudos to UP Cebu for implementing its varsity program and its Varsity Athletics Admission System!