By Ohmer Bautista

The University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) — hosted by National University (NU) — officially raised its curtains to Season 81, bannering its theme: "It All Begins Here", earlier today at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

“In Season 80, we celebrated greatness, but striving for greatness never really ends. It all begins here as we enter a new decade in the UAAP. Beyond competition, we celebrate the value of sports. Ladies and gentlemen, sports is life. Welcome to the UAAP, 'It All Begins Here',” shared Dr. RJ Ermita, UAAP board of trustees member of NU.

Headlining the said event is three-time National Basketball Association (NBA) Champion Stephen Curry, who was vested with the responsibility of leading the oath taking activity for the athletes.

Student-athlete representatives of each respective athletic teams of Far Eastern University (FEU) were also present in the festivities as they, along with other delegates from the rest of the participating universities, paraded through center stage.

Spongecola electrified the crowd as the opening act, while Filipino actor James Reid serenaded everyone in attendance. Minzy, a Korean pop idol, delivered an all-out sing-and-dance performance to punctuate the commencement event, which featured one of the most star-studded lineup of performers in recent memory.

With this, the newest season of the age-old tournament is now well underway.