Ateneo Hearter @ Heart Through Sports, Culture, And The Arts

          Last September 12, 2025, Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu Grade School department ignited the spirit of unity and excellence with the grand opening of Ateneo Fest, Hearter’s Best 2025 with the theme: “Ateneo Hearter @ Heart through Sports, Culture, and the Arts”. The Intramurals 2025 opening kicked off with a parade from the Lux Oriens Gym to the Magis Eagles Arena (MEA). The MEA was blazing with cheers as pupils, teachers, parents and visitors rallied behind their class teams and houses. The masters of ceremony, Ms. Maria Lisandra Tugaoen and Mr. Kenny Sasan, enthusiastically announced each class team as the teams proudly marched into the arena. The commencement of Ateneo Fest, Hearter’s Best 2025 began with the usual morning routine: the praying of the Morning Offering, a special Prayer from the Heart, Lupang Hinirang, Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas, and the school’s Vision and Mission. 

          After which, an inspiring sports chat was delivered by alumna, Ms. Jennifer Louise delos Santos, a former varsity volleyball player of Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu. She warmly shared her journey of how volleyball hooked her and helped shape her active lifestyle during her time in SHS-AdC. Jennifer’s story resonated deeply with the young Ateneo Hearters, as she revealed how her years on the volleyball court not only built her character but also gave her the courage to overcome life’s challenges. She left the audience with a powerful message: that discipline and perseverance are essential qualities that extend beyond the court and are vital for success in all aspects of life.

          The sports chat was followed by the symbolic lighting of the Friendship Flame, a moment led by the school’s outstanding athletes: Eowyne Lee (swimming), Johann Gonzales (taekwondo), Ruane Bontuyan (basketball), Ryz Alcano (volleyball), Mikkaella Gelig (taekwondo), Aaron Lee (football), and Maverick Goho (basketball). This powerful ritual was beautifully accompanied by an inspiring song performed by Zoie Bayawa, Alonzo Olis, Nicolo Pangan, Alyanna Bacalan, Sunyu Ji, and Athena Reoma. Energized by this, the young Ateneo Hearters confidently recited their Oath of Ignatian Sportsmanship. With heartfelt authority, Fr. Michael Pineda, SJ, the school president, officially declared Intramurals 2025 open. The celebration erupted with a captivating dance exhibition by the Blue Eagles Twirlers, followed by the grand entrance of muses and team captains in an exhilarating performance. The opening ceremony’s first part closed on a high note with a spirited community dance and the singing of the school hymn, uniting everyone in the arena in a vibrant display of spirit and solidarity.

          The excitement soared just as high in the second half of the Intramurals 2025 opening, as the vibrant dance palabas took center stage. Distinctive dance interpretations of the assigned themes by House Sapientia, House Magis, House AMDG, House Lux Oriens, and House Servire reminded the audience of the school’s proud 70-year tradition of forming men and women for others. House Sapientia brought to life the theme “Celebrating Reconciliation”, highlighting the healing of our bonds with God and Mother Earth. House Magis illuminated “Celebrating Faith,” honoring seven decades of deepening Christ-centered values in every Ateneo Hearter learner and formator. House AMDG echoed the spirit of seven decades of selfless outreach with “Celebrating Service,” showcasing the school’s enduring commitment to the community and beyond. House Lux Oriens dazzled the audience with their theme “Celebrating Excellence,” capturing the essence of an Ateneo Hearter through a dynamic dance that embodied the pursuit of greatness. Finally, House Servire, inspired by the theme “Celebrating Leadership”, portrayed the power of transformational leadership to shape a better future.

          Moreover, the primary levels captivated everyone with lively and charming dance presentations that showcased various sports and celebrated the country’s remarkable athletic achievements. Mrs. Lea Amores, the Grade School Principal, warmly congratulated all the houses and teams for their exceptional dance palabas performances.

          The afternoon buzzed with energy, kicking off with fun-filled games crafted by the guidance counselors for the primary levels, followed by a spirited vocal solo competition and exciting board games like chess and Boggle. Meanwhile, the Lux Oriens Gym roared with simultaneous ball games: basketball for Grade 4, futsal for Grade 5, and volleyball for Grade 6. Winners from each event will soon be announced by the organizers. 

          What a vibrant and active day for our young Ateneo Hearters! May the Ateneo Fest Hearter’s Best 2025 opening inspire a lifelong passion for an active lifestyle and nurture the values of sportsmanship, discipline, and teamwork in every learner, formator, and parent. For 70 years, this cherished tradition has ignited the spirit of the Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu community, shining as a beacon of inspiration for all. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!