THE UAAP is looking to widen its sports calendar in the coming seasons with the possible addition of three Olympic disciplines namely, weightlifting, shooting and golf as its next demonstration sports.
Institute of Physical Education and Athletics (PEA) regent and director Fr. Rodel Cansancio, O.P. said the move is in line with the league’s broader mission of contributing to the national sports development program.
“That’s really how we’ll succeed in the professional sports program. I believe that is really how we proceed to be successful in our national sporting program,” he said during the UAAP Season 88 press conference.
However, Cansancio acknowledged that expanding the league comes with challenges, particularly resource constraints.
“There are also many things that the schools need to consider, such as the financial implications. So it’s not that easy to form a team, as it can sometimes put a financial strain on the schools,” he said.
“But that idea for me is a step in the right direction.”
According to Cansancio, a technical working group has already been formed to study and discuss the proposal moving forward, with talks expected to continue into the upcoming season.
The push to integrate more Olympic sports gained traction after a meeting between the UAAP Board of Managing Directors and Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio on July 9.
Gregorio raised the need to address a gap in the athletic pipeline, noting how many athletes who shine in grassroots programs like Batang Pinoy and Palarong Pambansa end up shifting to different sports in college because of limited offerings.
UAAP Executive Director Rene Saguisag, Jr. welcomed the discussions, saying the league has a responsibility to ensure meaningful athletic opportunities for students.
“We are open to innovation and evolution. If these additional sports serve the greater goal of nation-building through athletics, then they deserve serious consideration,” Saguisag said.
Currently, the UAAP calendar already features 21 sporting events, with esports as part of the special events. Blitz and rapid chess are included as demonstration competitions. F – with reports from Francia Migyel Violeta
