The official UAAP Season 88 theme and logo. Handout/UAAP.MANILA — The UAAP has officially turned over the hosting duties to University of Santo Tomas from University of the Philippines as the league gears up for Season 88 later this year.
UST formally accepted the year-long responsibility from UP during the Season 87 Closing Ceremonies on Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The España-based institution revealed that Season 88’s theme will be “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action” as it promises not only fierce competition among the country’s top university athletes, but also a celebration of boundless courage, enduring discipline, and the uniting spirit of sports.
UST expounded on the coming season’s theme, saying that “‘Strength in Motion, Hope in Action’ embodies the deeper meaning of competition: not solely to achieve victory, but to inspire transformation — of oneself, of teams, and the greater community.” Season 88’s opening also falls within the Jubilee of Hope, a Catholic holy year declared by the late Pope Francis in his papal bull "Spes non confundit" [Latin for "Hope does not disappoint" (Rom 5:5)], which makes the theme more meaningful.
Furthermore, “Strength in Motion captures the relentless spirit of athletes who strive to achieve beyond their limits. It is the disciplined movement shaped by perseverance, the strength that does not merely endure but propels forward — seen in every sprint, every leap, every act of determination on and off the field.”
“Hope in Action reflects the inner drive that sustains resilience. It is hope that manifests not only in dreams but in choices — the choice to rise after defeat, to believe despite uncertainty, and to continue striving for excellence even amidst challenges.”
UP turns over UAAP hosting duties to the University of Santo Tomas, May 20, 2025 at the Mall of Asia Arena. UAAP Media
UST also revealed the logo which will be used for Season 88.
The school said that the logo is a symbol of teamwork and solidarity among the UAAP member schools and serves as a powerful visual representation of our shared commitment to building a better future through unity in sports and education.
"At the heart of the design are two interlocking number eights, each drawn with similar yet distinct motions. Their intersection forms the shape of a flame — an emblem of passion, strength, and shared purpose. The common strokes between the figures symbolize the power that emerges when teams come together, while the flame reflects our burning desire for collective excellence," the school said.
"The colors used throughout the logo are inspired by the official hues of UAAP member institutions. Interwoven into the design, they signify continuity and inclusivity — honoring the unique identity of each school while illustrating our ability to unite for a common purpose. The flowing lines suggest a sense of motion, reminding us that hope is more than optimism — it is action. It is the drive to transform aspirations into tangible efforts that create lasting, positive change. It’s about actively working toward a better future, together."
"Together, these elements capture the essence of what Season 88 stands for: a celebration of the strength we possess when we move as one, and the difference we make when we act on our shared hopes and goals."
The league's 87th season closed with the Streetdance Competition, which saw hosts UP emerge triumphant.