The roar of the crowd, the intensity of competition, and the joy of victory crescendoed at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena this May 2025, as the venue hosted five consecutive collegiate sporting events.
Since its launch in 2012, the MOA Arena has solidified its reputation as the premier home for the Philippines’ top collegiate sports, nurturing future generations of athletes and showcasing unparalleled talent from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
A legacy of champions crowned
The electrifying week kicked off on May 17, 2025, with the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Championship. In a fiercely contested third game, the National University (NU) Bulldogs clashed with the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws. After a nail-biting five sets, the NU Bulldogs emerged victorious with a 15-11 final score, securing their fifth consecutive championship title.
This remarkable achievement sees them join the NU Lady Bulldogs, who also claimed the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball championship, cementing NU’s dominance in collegiate volleyball.
Passion ignited on the dance floor
The energy shifted but remained just as electric on May 20, 2025, as the Arena transformed into a dynamic stage for the UAAP Streetdance Competition. After a fierce battle, the University of the Philippines (UP) Streetdance Club claimed the championship, dethroning the defending champions, University of Santo Tomas (UST), who secured first runner-up. De La Salle University also impressed, taking third runner-up.
A grand centennial celebration
The excitement continued as the SM MOA Arena celebrated the 100th season of the NCAA with its highly anticipated Cheerleading competition on May 22, 2025. Nine universities battled it out, but it was Arellano University who soared above the rest, earning the championship title. The University of Perpetual Help System and Colegio de San Juan de Letran were recognized as first and second runners-up, respectively. The roar of the fans celebrating Arellano’s six-peat championship filled the arena, a reflection of the dedication and emotion poured into every routine.
These events aren’t just about trophies; they represent the dedication of the youth, honing their talents and passions as future leaders. The SM MOA Arena extends its heartfelt gratitude to the UAAP and NCAA for their continued trust, affirming its role as the undisputed home where the next generation of Filipino talent thrives.