PALOMPON, LEYTE, Philippines—Early on, Samar State University (SSU) is shining at the initial days of the PASUC 8 Regional Culture and Arts Festival (RCAF) 2025 with strong performances as Day 1 results rolled in on December 9, 2025 hosted by the Palompon Institute of Technology (PIT). The four-day regional gathering, which brings together athletes from state universities and colleges (SUC) across Eastern Visayas, is already proving to be a proud moment for the SSU community.
SSU delivered standout performances across both performing and visual arts categories. In the Vocal Solo (Kundiman) category, Jake Mabansag showcased his mastery of the genre, earning 5th Place. Meanwhile, Jhoannie Leanda secured an impressive 2nd Place in the Pop Solo (OPM) competition with a powerful and crowd-winning performance.
The university’s Show Choir also landed a strong finish in 4th Place, represented by a dynamic ensemble of SSU performers:
- Ruby B. Lucero
- Jhoannie Leanda
- Rhea Mae Margaret Q. Roncal
- Ma. Vernica Mae C. Yu
- Mae Crystalie O. Maluya
- Giselle R. Daligon
- Mhelygem C. Dacanay
- Randolp M. Orbello
- Armando D. Bisnar III
- Jayson Z. Osabel
- Dorence G. Jabon
- Jonathan T. Deloy
- Rex N. Guldo
- Raymund Rueda
- Neil Ivan Ralph M. Caber
- Allan John Pabua
- Rose Jean Medes
- Nico Hermo
- Darlyn Ashley Bacsal
- John Paul A. Tagaloy
Furthermore, Paulo Barral claimed 1st Place in the On-The-Spot Poster Making Contest, marking one of SSU’s biggest wins of the day. Other strong finishes include Danilo Cabrigas, 5th Place in the Photo Contest; Cherwen Desacada, 3rd Place in Pencil Drawing; and Melbert Carcellar, 3rd Place in Charcoal Rendering.
Musical artistry continued with SSU’s instrumental category, where Andrea Shane Macabenta and Julius Grata earned 5th Place in the Instrumental Solo (Banduria) competition.
SSU also enjoyed a celebratory moment at the coronation night of Mr. and Ms. PASUC 8 RCAF 2025 held yesterday as well at the Palompon Civic Center. Ms. Marivic D. Silva shone onstage, capturing the title of First Runner-Up for Ms. PASUC-8 RCAF 2025, along with the Best in Production Number Award.
Together with Mr. Kein D. Dacutanan, the SSU pair was also honored with the Best in Regional Costume Award, showcasing their creativity, cultural appreciation, and stage presence. Mr. Dacutanan further secured a spot among the Top 5 finalists for Mister PASUC-8 RCAF 2025.
With Day 1 already filled with triumphs, SSU continues to anticipate more wins as the festival progresses. The university community remains in high spirits, cheering on its representatives as they carry the banner of SSU with talent, passion, and pride through the coming days.
Congratulations, Tradesmen! Bagsik Bugsok!