MCU Marks Hosting Debut in UCAL Season 9 with Strong Athletic Showing; Ritmo Centralino Takes 1st Runner-Up

In its fourth year in the league, host university Manila Central University signals strengthened athletics program at PG Flex Linoleum Season 9 opener

MCU Supremos deliver an exhilarating performance, setting the tone for a momentous season for the host university and the rest of UCAL.

AS ONE of the youngest members of the Universities and Colleges Athletic League (UCAL), Manila Central University (MCU) took center stage as host of the UCAL PG Flex Linoleum Season 9 opening ceremony at the Playtime FilOil Flying V Center, marking a milestone year for the MCU Supremos.

Leading the festivities, MCU student-athletes marched in their signature purple-and-gold, with Ralph Justine Tadeo of the MCU Supremos Men's Basketball Team leading the Athlete's Oath on behalf of all competing schools.

Ralph Justine Tadeo of the MCU Supremos Men’s Basketball Team lead the Athlete’s Oath.

"It feels exciting to see the entire MCU community come together and show their support. We're not just playing for ourselves-we carry the whole MCU community with us," said Tadeo.

Ritmo Centralino clinches this season’s 1st Runner-Up title in the Streetdance Competition.

Highlighting MCU's growing athletic prowess, its official street dance crew Ritmo Centralino secured 1st Runner-Up in this year's Streetdance Competition, besting eight other schools. The win caps months of preparation and reflects MCU's fortified athletics program under the leadership of its athletics team.

Matthaios poses with the UCAL audience after serenading them with his popular pop and R&B songs.

Lola Amour closes a historic beginning for MCU and the rest of UCAL with popular hits such as “Raining In Manila”.

The opening also featured electrifying performances from OPM acts Matthaios and Lola Amour, who performed hits including "Raining In Manila," capping a celebration attended by thousands of students and supporters.

For MCU leadership, hosting Season 9 is both an honor and a launchpad.

"The opening ceremony brought the MCU community together. Our student-athletes have sparked something special as they have strengthened our bonds, inspired human expression and athletic exploration," said Dr. Renato C. Tanchoco, Jr., President of Manila Central University.

"This year's games mark the beginning of a meaningful athletic journey for both coaches and student-athletes as they take on the challenge across multiple sports," said Javier Lopez-Sanz Chulvi, MCU Strategic Advisor for Athletics. "It's all about determination, hope, and unity. As a community, we have been working more closely, more ambitiously, and with greater discipline to deliver performances that will redefine the UCAL experience."

Now on its fourth season in UCAL, MCU enters Season 9 competitions with momentum from its hosting debut and podium finish in the street dance tilt. (PR)