Abuyog, Leyte – March 23, 2026 – The journey toward regional athletic glory officially began at the Abuyog Community College (ACC) Business Incubation Facility on Monday, as student-athletes gathered for the first day of screening for the upcoming LCUAA VIII Meet 2026.

The event commenced with a general assembly and registration, setting the stage for a day of discipline, determination, and rigorous evaluation. The Board of Screeners from Burauen Community College (BCC) arrived to oversee the process, led by College President Dr. Jett C. Quebec and including John Eric R. Go, Nonelon S. Abrantes, Emmanuelle Blien C. Briones, John Dranreb C. Gerilla, and Ryan Cardines.

Following an opening prayer and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and institutional hymns, Director for Student Affairs and Services Christopher Gallos welcomed the student-athletes, emphasizing the importance of integrity and discipline as they strive to represent their institutions. ACC College President Clemelle L. Montallana inspired the candidates to not only showcase their athletic prowess but also to uphold exemplary character as they pursue excellence.

Sports and Athletics Coordinator Fhaila Donn C. Soniedo introduced the student-athletes for the screening, which included document validation, gallery checking, and interviews. The selection process, overseen by the Board of Screeners chaired by John Eric R. Go, ensures that only the most qualified candidates advance to represent their colleges at the regional level.

Executive Vice President Dr. Asuncion M. Villote closed the activity with remarks on the importance of fairness, transparency, and rigorous evaluation in building competitive and credible teams.

The four-day screening rotation will continue as follows:

• March 24 – Burauen Community College, with City College of Ormoc as the screening committee

• March 25 – City College of Ormoc, with ACC overseeing the process

• March 26 – Catbalogan City Community College, screened by Colegio de las Navas

• March 27 – Colegio de la Navas, screened by Catbalogan City Community College

With the LCUAA VIII Meet scheduled from April 19 to 22 in Ormoc City, this screening represents a crucial milestone in shaping strong and competitive teams that will vie for regional honors.