With SLCV hosting the event...
NMAA 2003 Opens with a Bang!
September 13, 2003
Ana Bartolome

September 13, 2003 – a Saturday … it would be an ordinary day for most people. For most students…but not the ones involved in the opening ceremony of the North Manila Athletic Association (NMAA) meet 2003.  It is what they have been practicing hard for. The different schools included in this association are : St.Louis College Valenzuela, St.James Academy, St.Mary’s Academy, St.Joseph College of Novaliches, Philippine Cultural High School, Immaculate Mother Learning Center, Systems Plus Computer College and lastly, Notre Dame of Greater Manila.

 At about 8:30 am, the parade of the school flags, athletes and guests started. Next, was the doxology led by selected students from IV – St. Augustine of Hippo with their interpretation of the song “Our Father”. After which was the National Anthem sang by the Koro de San Luis under the supervision of Ms. Joan Chavez and Frank Mamaril, backed up with a symbolic accompaniment of Theatre Ensemble under Mr. Borgy Danao.

The guests and spectators were formally welcomed by SLCV's High School Principal, Mr. Edelberto de Jesus, who also happens to be this year's NMAA president.  To the crowd’s amazement, our SLCV Dance Troupe once again showed-off their dancing prowess with their SK Sayaw Katutubo winning piece "IDAW".

Mr. Arthur A.Tong, NMAA vice president, did the introduction of the guest speaker who was none other than Mrs.Victoria D. Altoveros, MAPEH Supervisor of the Division of City Schools of Valenzuela. After Mrs. Altovero's inspiring message, SLCV vice president Ms. Cheryl Lyn Luciano awarded a plaque of appreciation to her.  A plaque of recognition, on the other hand, was presented by Mr.de Jesus to Rev.Fr. Rodolfo S. Jacobe Jr. OMI, who was the former president of the NMAA.  One of the highlights of the day soon followed which is the awarding of last year's winner and this year's Ms. NMAA 2003, which was given to the muse of St. Mary’s Academy, Ms. Joanne Rodriguez.

 Soon after the awarding, the pledge made by the athletes was led by Ana Grace Guillermo, the captain-ball of the SLCV Volleyball Girls. And then, Cyrus Jarryd Solivar, the vice-captain ball of the Varsity Volleyball Boys, did the lighting of torch that symbolized the beginning of the tournament.

After the awarding, the most-awaited moment had come.  The declaration of the opening of the NMAA meet was formally announced by Ms. Luciano.  Balloons flew up and confetti fell from the building which was spectacular.  Before the program was finally concluded, a cheering presentation thrilled everyone watching courtesy of selected students from St. James Academy who were also the ones who performed in last year's opening ceremony in Notre Dame.

The success of the opening ceremony was made possible by the synergy of the administrators, teachers, and students, who in one way or another have shared their talents and skills, devoted their time and resources to ensure the smooth operations of the program.

After the program, the audience was invited to attend the opening games for Basketball and Volleyball.

President :   Edelberto C. de Jesus (St. Louis College Valenzuela)
Vice President :  Arthur A. Tong (Philippine Cultural High School)
Secretary :  Shiela Mary S. Lauchengco (St. James Academy)
Treasurer :  Rolando M. Gonzales (St. Louis College Valenzuela)
Auditor :  John Eusebio (Immaculate Mother Learning Center)
P.R.O. :  Nelson L. Balongay (Notre Dame of Greater Manila)