As anticipated, legendary OPM band Eraserheads ruled the stage at the Araneta Coliseum to formally kick off UAAP Season 87.
Legendary OPM rock band members Ely Buendia, Buddy Zabala, Raimund Marasigan, and Marcus Adoro had the 7,429-strong crowd, made up of Millennials, and Gen Z from UAAP schools singing along to some of their greatest hits.
Concert like no other
“Alapaap” was the band's opening song, while “Ang Huling El Bimbo” was their closing song. Fans, student-athletes, and even league officials were up and singing along the entire set.
During their set, The Eraserheads, who were performing for the first time at the Big Dome, said they were happy to be performing in front of the student athletes.
The UP Symphony Orchestra, UP Concert Chorale, UPeepz, and UP alumni members of Slapshock, Franco, and Moonstar88 were among the other performers in the culturally packed event.
“The University of the Philippines opens Season 87 as hosts by sending a message to the world that together, we can be stronger and better as schools, as a community, as a nation, and as citizens of the world,” said the UAAP Season 87 Chairman and UP President Atty. Jijil Jimenez.
Prelude for exciting season
The one-hour-and-a-half program precluded the new UAAP season, which featured host school UP going up against perennial rival Ateneo in the opening game.
Jimenez noted the UAAP's influence on Philippine sports, referring to the league as one of the most well-liked sports offerings in the nation.
“From its promising beginnings almost a century ago, the UAAP has become what it is today — the most popular college sporting franchise,” he said.
