University of the Philippines (UP) president Atty. Angelo Jimenez, chairman of University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87, has officially turned over the hosting responsibilities for Season 88 to Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P. and University of Santo Tomas (UST).

The ceremonial turnover took place during the grand closing event of Season 87, which featured the much-anticipated Streetdance Competition, the awarding of the season’s general champions, and the recognition of the five Athletes of the Year.

With the theme “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” Jimenez formally entrusted the next season’s hosting to UST.

Jimenez proudly reflected on how UP fulfilled its promise of delivering a season to remember — one that began with an unforgettable opening ceremony headlined by the iconic OPM band, Eraserheads.

“At the start of this season, Season 87, we have sent a message that we, in the UAAP, are not just mere competitors, but we are a community,” Jimenez said.

“At the end of this truly incredible journey, we can say that we have lived up to that promise. Indeed, eight schools, one league, all united in service to the nation, all united in promoting the love for the game, and all united to the transformation of the students of our schools who will be future leaders of the country,” Jimenez said.

“We do not end the season without thanking many people, and I would like in particular to extend our thanks to the officials, the coaches, and the staff of the UAAP and our partners. Without them, without their work on the sidelines, this would not have been a success. Thank you all very much,” he added.

Season 87 concluded with a historic men’s volleyball final last Saturday, where a division-record crowd of 14,517 witnessed National University complete a rare five-peat championship. The season’s final day also saw the UP Streetdance Club and the NU-Nazareth School Dance Company emerge victorious in the Streetdance Competition.

UST also capped the season by clinching the general championship titles in both divisions — its 48th overall in the collegiate level and 24th in the high school level — officially ending the season on a triumphant note as the next host.

Jimenez expressed his full confidence that UST will build upon what UP had achieved during its nine-month hosting of Season 87.

“I am very confident that the University of Santo Tomas will improve on what we have done, and they are going to demonstrate true sports and the values of holistic growth that they are known for since history,” he added.

Fr. Richard Ang, who was installed for a second consecutive term as UST Rector in September 2024, acknowledged the responsibility of hosting the UAAP once again. This marks the university’s return as host since Season 79 in 2016.

With the theme “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” UST hopes to highlight the relentless spirit of student-athletes striving to go beyond their limits, celebrating enduring discipline and the uniting power of sports.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to the University of the Philippines, our host for Season 87. Your leadership made this particular season not only well-organized, but also meaningful and anchored on values that shape not just athletes, but the entire UAAP community,” Ang said.

“Now, the University of Santo Tomas humbly steps into this role as the host of UAAP Season 88. We accept this challenge, and with open arms, we invite everyone – students, alumni, families, and sports enthusiasts of all schools – to once again rally behind your colors.”

“Let us fill arenas with chants, uplift athletes with cheers, and bring pride to our schools. Let the spirit of camaraderie and unity continue to move us forward together.”