Athletes, faculty, students, and other delegates from various campuses of Isabela State University convened at Cabagan Square Park for the kick off the University Meet and Culture and the Arts Festival2025, February 05.
To formally start the program Dr. Emerson V. Barcellano, Cluster Executive Officer of ISU Cabagan Campus, gave an opening remarks emphasizing the significance of the activity to all students. “To everyone present here today, you give encouragement and support and empower to our gifted athletes, contestants for the true stars of this competition,” he said.

The event was then followed by the presentation of delegates and raising of banners by Campus Executive Officers, Administrators, Coordinators, and Team Leaders of each ISU campuses. The University President, Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, reiterated the reflection of being a athlete on being a better student. “Let your performance be reflection of your hardwork, discipline, and the values that qualities of Isabela State University have,” he said On the other hand, Vidal Dave S. Soriano, Basketball Player, National SCUAA, took the lead in Oath of Amateurism. Followed by lighting of the Cauldron named ‘Friendship Flame’ by the best players of each campuses. Meanwhile, Hon. Mila T. Albano Mamauag Former Member, Board of Regents of Isabela State University, shared a inspirational message to the participants. “In everyday, you do what you have to do, to become a person not just a better athlete. Becoming a better person would translate to you becoming a better citizen to serve God,” she said.

In addition, the spotlight was given to the candidates of each campuses as they were presented in the program. Furthermore, Dr. Boyet L. Batang, Vice President, Academic Affairs, officially Declared the opening of the University Games. The program concluded with a ‘unity dance’ performed by the selected ISU Cabagan students.