By Herman M. Lagon
As the final whistle of RSCUAA 2024 fades, the spotlight turns to those who quietly made it all possible. The Public Relations Committee — composed of 50 campus journalists, student volunteers, faculty (me, included), and staff — worked diligently behind the scenes, embodying teamwork and service beyond the challenges to ensure the success and spirit of RSCUAA 2024 resonated far and wide. Their journey was not about grandeur but showing up, giving their best, and living out Magis: The call to strive for the greater good.
From their first press release in October and skills training in November to their final scoreboard update this Friday, December 20, the team’s journey has been one of purpose, not perfection. Their achievements are nothing short of remarkable: Over 18 million views, 1.4 million engagements, 27,000 followers, two press conferences, five in-depth radio and TV interviews, 15 media outlet partners, 200+ articles produced, 800+ Messenger inquiries answered, 400+ scoreboards, posters, and pubmats designed and shared, 50,000+ photos captured, 100+ videos shown using 250GB GDrive — all within just 28 days. Yet, these impressive numbers tell only part of the story. Behind the stats are late-night edits, last-minute pubmat revisions, improvised livestream setups, frantic equipment fixes, quick snack breaks, whispered pep talks, endless GC convo, exhausted but determined smiles, and quiet moments of camaraderie fueled by unlimited candies, coffee, cookies, and chismis — proof of the grit, grace and growth that brought this extraordinary feat to life.
Their achievements on steroids were not about metrics but meaning. The real magic lay in the hours spent working through glitches, making do with limited resources, and finding joy in small victories. These were not just tasks to complete; they were opportunities to learn, grow and connect in ways that transcended the regional sports festival — of 42 events, 22 venues spanning three municipalities and two cities, participated in by 13 state universities with 3,500 athletes and coaches, representing 115,000 college students from six provinces of Western Visayas — itself.
None of this would have been possible without the leadership, trust and support of University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., General Secretariat Chairperson Dr. Edmer Bernardo, and the many other teams and committees who stood as pillars of encouragement. Their patience, understanding, guidance, assistance, and support laid the foundation for the dedicated students, public affairs team, MIS team, school paper advisers, and countless others who worked tirelessly to bring this event to life through their tasks and craft.
Of course, there were missteps. No undertaking of this scale is without its challenges — technical hiccups, last-minute changes, typo oversights, stress-induced tension, and occasional plan changes. But what defined this team was their resilience. Every challenge was met with determination and an eagerness to improve, transforming each setback into a stepping stone toward something better.
This spirit of service — of doing more than what is asked — reflected the heart of Magis. Many on the team may not have realized it then, but their sacrifices, from sleepless nights to endless assignments, were quiet heroism. They gave not for accolades but for the shared goal of making RSCUAA 2024 a success for everyone involved.
As this chapter closes, the bonds formed and lessons learned will endure. The friendships forged in the trenches of this event and the skills sharpened under its pressures are gifts that will carry forward into every future challenge. These are memories and the foundation for a lifetime of growth, friendship, and collaboration.
We offer our deepest thanks to the parents and guardians who allowed these young individuals to step into this demanding role. Your trust gave them the space to rise to the occasion, and their growth — both in character and capability — stands as a testament to their dedication and your support.
Most of all, we want to sincerely thank the divine for guiding us through tough challenges. With faith and determination, we faced obstacles that often felt overwhelming. This journey has not only strengthened our resolve but also highlighted the incredible power of community and working together toward a shared purpose through grace.
To the PR team, you have earned your rest and videoke shindig. Celebrate your achievements, but remain grounded, knowing this experience is just the beginning. Though intense and challenging, your work has left a lasting mark on the event and everyone who witnessed your commitment.
In the spirit of Magis and human excellence, greatness lies not in being seen but in how you choose to serve. To the golden 50, part of the many quiet heroes of RSCUAA 2024, thank you for your dedication, humility and heart. Mission accomplished. Magis fulfilled.
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Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with./WDJ