Do not Fear, Only Believe: Letran celebrates 3-peat Championship
Jayleen Avila & Leanne Maxinne Ceria
PUBMAT | Aeneid Renz Pasia
Thursday, January 5, 2023 – After being the first school to bag two championships in one year consisting for two seasons, the Letran community finally celebrated the win of the Letran Knights in the National Collegiate Athletic Association's Season 98 Basketball League.
To give thanks for the blessing of being champions, a mass presided by Rev. Fr. Clarence Marquez, O.P., was held in the Colegio's chapel. Father Marquez highlighted that despite the broken training gym, fouls, suspensions, false accusations, hurtful words, and even the championship tarpaulin bashed and compared to cockfight banners, we still leaped with faith in God, we believed, and we trusted in Him. "Apaw-apaw na ligaya, apaw-apaw na biyaya, at apaw-apaw na pasasalamat" is what Father said we have right now after all the hardships everyone went through.
The celebration continued as the Letran Knights, along with the Letran Band, toured around Intramuros in a motorcade event. Flags and blue balloons added to the Arriba spirit as the convoy passed by our neighboring schools in Intramuros. The beat of the drums isn't loud enough to explain how proud the community is of our champions. Thus, a meet-and-greet program was held at the St. Albert the Great Building with alumna Krissy Achino as the master of ceremonies. Championship merchandise was sold as the audience was allowed to ask questions, get signatures, and take pictures with the players. The excitement of the numerous Letranites wanting to appreciate and interact with the players flocked to the event. When Captain Ball Fran Louie Yu was requested to give a message to the next generations of Letran Knights, he encouraged them to realize how crucial hard work, good communication, and authenticity are to achieving effective teamwork and, of course, victory. On the other hand, Kurt Spencer Reyson stated that they would continue the team's legacy even when their seniors bid goodbye, as he promised not to disappoint the supporters rooting for them. And with those, applause and cheers filled the room.
Afterward, a breathtaking performance by the Letran Cheering Squad started the main victory party event. The iconic yells and cheering tricks were enough to fire up everybody's excitement. The crowd was ecstatic when the Letran Knights and their coaching staff were on stage, as everyone congratulated them on their win. Graduating players, namely Fran Louie Yu, Brent Paraiso, and King Caralipio, expressed gratitude to their supporters, administrators, and staff who participated in their wins. The coaching staff, especially Coach Bonnie Tan, Mr. Al Francis Chua, Rev. Fr. Victor Calvo, O.P., and once again, Rev. Fr. Clarence Marquez, O.P., also gave their thanks and messages to the present and future champions and all of the community. During the program, the outgoing players turned over a ball to their successors, followed by the raising of Letran's 20th flag, which signifies the Colegio's championship.
Of course, the victory night of the Knights will not be complete without the most anticipated event, the bonfire. Gathered at the Letran Grounds, everyone watched as the team fired their torches and ignited the bonfire. The cool breeze caused by the rainy season felt warm and cozy as the champions, alums, and Letranites were home. Furthermore, a live band was present, along with a community dinner at Salon de Actos. Everyone was welcome to feast on delicious food such as Lechon and chicken, which was well-deserved by everyone after a long, tiring, exhausting season. The victory party ended with a stunning conclusion—a fireworks display. While various brightly colored lights filled the sky, Freddie Mercury's voice echoed as Queen's “We Are The Champions'' was played on a loop. The uplifting music made the Knights feel proud and inspired by their triumph.
The Colegio certainly brings life lessons to those who enter and become part of it. As a Letranite, Fran Yu learned that we must treasure the companions we make, as they will help us reach our goals and dreams. Letran nurtures an individual to be better—to be the best version of themselves, which is why it is no surprise to hear the quote, "Kay sarap maging Letranista," from the beloved champions. The knightly excellence we possess will always remain as we have believed, hence igniting the victorious flames of red and blue.
