In rings of red, blue, yellow, and green, the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) opened its Palaro 2025 on October 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., at the Joaquin F. Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex (Grandstand) in Zamboanga City. The event carried the theme, โOne Spirit, One Goal, One WMSU: Championing Unity and Excellence Through Sports.โ
A sea of colors filled the grandstand as students from different colleges, faculty members, and administrative personnel entered the venue in their respective hues, waving their banners high and cheering in unison. Leading the event was University President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena.
Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Dr. Fredelino M. San Juan delivered an inspiring message during the opening ceremony of Palaro 2025. His words set the tone for a week of competition, camaraderie, and school pride. Dr. San Juan expressed his absolute pleasure and excitement in welcoming the athletes, coaches, and supporters to this yearโs games.
โItโs not about who won or lost,โ he shared. โItโs about what happens in between which are the teamwork, the friendships built, and the memories we will carry long after the final whistle.โ
Representing Honorable Mayor Khymer Adan T. Olaso, Executive Assistant Mr. Rosendo โJuntyโ Castillo III delivered an inspiring message during the opening ceremony of Palaro 2025, expressing gratitude for the successful event and emphasizing its significance beyond the playing field.
โThis event is for the good of our students,โ he said, underscoring the importance of activities that nurture both mind and character. โTo have a holistic approach to education is something all universities and schools strive to achieve and here we are, as WMSU stands as the standard.โ
Speaking on behalf of Mayor Olaso, he reaffirmed the city governmentโs support for programs that promote holistic education and student development, reminding everyone that true victory lies not only in winning but in the values gained along the way.
In addition, a historic moment for Western Mindanao State University took place, Atty. Florencio M. Liong Jr., President of the WMSU United General Alumni Association, Inc. and member of the WMSU Board of Regents, announced the launch of the first-ever Alumni Game Fest 2025 in harmony with the opening of Palaro 2025.
Calling it a โsignificant Palaro in history,โ Atty. Liong shared that this yearโs celebration goes beyond athletic excellence as it honors the enduring bond that connects all members of the WMSU family. โWe do not only celebrate sportsmanship and competition,โ he said, โbut the unity that binds us as proud sons and daughters of WMSU.โ
He emphasized that the eventโs theme stands as a living testament to fellowship, camaraderie, and lifelong connection values deeply instilled in every WMSU alumnus and alumna. โThe lessons we have learned here continue to guide us in every field of endeavor,โ he added.
The beautiful rings of red, blue, yellow, and green took the breath of everyone. It was an opening worth watching as the university commits not just to excellence but a holistic quality education for every student. (Atty. MA Tamon-PAO)
