The three QSU campuses converged today, February 4, 2026 to formally open the University Meet and Culture and the Arts Festival 2026, themed “QSU United in Flame and Glory: One Spark, One Spirit, One Victory.”
This year’s gathering began with a grand procession and street dance performances that led to a formal opening program at the Diffun Campus. During the program, Mr. Jaimark P. Villamayor, University Director for Sports and Wellness, welcomed the delegations and emphasized the vital link between athletics and academic success. He encouraged the delegates, saying, “Have fun, and go for the goal!”
The cheering of the crowd intensified during the presentation and sashing of the candidates for Mr. and Ms. QSU.
Following the ceremony, Dr. Hermenegildo F. Samoy, Jr., University President, spoke about the power of passion and courage that can ignite a collective fire within the University. Highlighting the need for discipline, teamwork, and mutual respect, he urged the delegates to compete with passion, fairness, and humility. He also extended his gratitude to the trainers and mentors for guiding students toward victory and the cultivation of strong values.
“As we strive for victory, let us remember that the greatest triumph is becoming better individuals and building a stronger QSU community,” President Samoy, Jr. stated as he officially declared the celebration open.
The program transitioned to the Torch Relay, led by Mr. James Bond Gacusan, National SCUAA Gold Medalist, and a contingent of elite athletes from all campuses. This led to the Lighting of the Friendship Flame, a task shared by Dr. Rosalyn L. Delizo, University Director for Instruction; Dr. Jenalyn M. Sarmiento, University Director for Student Affairs and Services; Mr. Baltazar G. Damance, Campus Administrator of Cabarroguis; and Dr. Edward C. Alip, Campus Administrator of Maddela.
The event continued with a unity dance led by the Office of the Socio-Cultural Services, followed by the hoisting of banners. To formalize the competition, the Oath of Sportsmanship was led by Ms. Lheny Jade C. Laroza, while Dr. Nelson Guray, General Referee, administered the Oath of Coaches and Officiating Officials.
As the Friendship Flame starts burning, the three-day celebration offers a unique opportunity for the student-athletes and performers from all three campuses to showcase their grit and talent, ensuring their contributions leave a permanent mark on the University’s legacy.
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