2024 Quezon PRISAA chapter meet officially opens; MSEUF serves as host

Amidst the excitement and anticipation, the 2024 Quezon PRISAA Chapter Meet officially kicked off on March 20, marking the beginning of five days of thrilling sports competition and camaraderie. 

Hosted by Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) Lucena, the sporting and cultural events brought together 12 private schools and colleges from across Quezon Province, all vying for glory in various sports and cultural disciplines. 

The opening festivities started with a grand parade, showcasing the spirit and unity of the participating institutions namely: St. Anne College of Lucena Inc. (SACLI), Maryhill College (MC), Sacred Heart College (SHC), Inter-Global College Foundation Inc., STI-Lucena, Calayan Educational Foundation Inc. (CEFI), College of Sciences Technology and Communication (CSTC), Leon Guinto Memorial College (LGMC), Quezon Educational College (QEC), MSEUF-Catanauan, MSEUF-Candelaria, and MSEUF Lucena. Each school proudly marched with respective muses in solidarity, setting the stage for the exhilarating days ahead. 

Following the parade, the opening program unfolded at the MSEUF University Gymnasium, graced by distinguished guests and dignitaries. Honorable Governor of Quezon Province, Hon. Dr. Angelina Tan, represented by her supervising administrative officer John Francis Luzano, and the respected City Mayor, Mark Don Victor Alcala, represented by his executive assistant Ashley Soza, honored the event with their presence. 

Luzano and Soza on behalf of Governor Tan and Mayor Alcala, respectively, gave inspirational messages emphasizing the significance of sports competitions in promoting teamwork, discipline, and leadership among the youth. They promised strong support in the succeeding sporting events. 

MSEUF Vice President for External Relations, Celso Jaballa, extended a warm welcome to all participants and guests on behalf of University President/COO Madame Naila Enverga-Leveriza and Chairman/CEO Wilfrido Lopez Enverga. Jaballa expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic participation and highlighted the remarkable achievements of Quezon Province in previous PRISAA events, including victories in both athletics and cultural competitions. 

The symbolic lighting of the torch by team captains followed, and the solemn oath of sportsmanship, administered by bronze medalist Gian Franco Hernandez, served as poignant reminders of the values of fair play and integrity that underpin the spirit of PRISAA. 

The formal opening of the games presided over by Director Darios Virrey, Quezon PRISAA president, and marked by the ceremonial toss led by Alyssa Lazaro, started the spirited competition across various sports disciplines. 

John Kristoffer Tibor acted as emcee. 

Meanwhile, the solidarity meeting following the opening program served as a crucial platform for participants to receive final instructions and certifications of the proceedings of the five-day PRISAA Chapter Meet. They were briefed on the schedule of events, competition rules, and logistical arrangements. Sports coordinators from each participating school and college collaborated closely with the organizing committee to address any concerns and ensure that the competition would proceed in a fair and organized manner. 

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Several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are anchored in the activity as follows: 

• Quality Education – SDG-4. The event serves as a platform for identifying talented students who will represent Quezon Province in various academic and cultural contests. 
• Gender Equality (SDG-5). The inclusion of both male and female participants in the PRISAA Chapter Meet promotes gender equality in sports and academic competitions. 
• Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG-8). The event supports the local economy by bringing together participants, guests, and organizers, potentially boosting economic activity in the host city of Lucena. 
• Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG-9). Hosting events like the PRISAA Chapter Meet requires adequate infrastructure and logistic support. By investing in sports facilities and organizational structures, the event contributes to enhancing infrastructure and fostering innovation in sports management and event planning. 
• Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG-11). The involvement of local government officials, educational institutions, and community members in organizing and participating in the event promotes collaboration and community engagement. 
• Partnerships for the Goals (SDG-17). The successful organization of the PRISAA Chapter Meet relies on collaboration and partnerships between various stakeholders, including educational institutions, and the private sector, working together towards a common goal and eventually contributing to the overall success and sustainability of the event.