Amid the heat of sports competition, where dreams burn bright and sacrifices fuel determination, student-athletes from various state universities and colleges in Region VIII kindle the flame of victory. This year’s Eastern Visayas Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Games celebrates these fiery aspirations through its official anthem, “Larab Sa Kadaugan” (Spark to Victory).

Written by Cerilo A. Irinco, Director of Northwest Samar State University’s (NWSSU) Arts, Social and Cultural Affairs, the anthem blazes as a symbol of resilience, unity, and the enduring strength of Samareños and Leyteños. Irinco describes it as a call to approach challenges with heart, guided by justice and peace.

“Larab Sa Kadaugan is a call to play the games with heart, fueled by love, vigilance and faith. The lyrics encourage us to run the race of life with justice and peace as our guiding principles, always striving to be teammates in the grand game of life with all creation,” he explained.

The birth of the anthem

The song’s creation began with a deep reflection on the struggles and resilience of Samar and Leyte. Rooted in prayer and silence, Irinco conceptualized a message that aligns with the SCUAA Games’ theme—a message of unity and triumph that resonates with students across Region VIII.

“The first thing I made in writing the lyrics is silence and prayer,” Irinco revealed. “Then I realized the providential graces of God over the years in spite of our unworthiness.”

A song of struggle and triumph

Each part of the anthem transitions into deeper narratives that reflect life’s challenges and blessings. The verses tell a story of flaming perseverance and hope, the refrain burns for vigilance and justice as guides to victory, and the chorus invites everyone to ignite a spark in the darkness—a call to rise above adversity and illuminate the path toward transformation for Samar and Leyte.

“Larab sa Kadaugan means the rising of the people of Samar and Leyte above adversity to become champions of Filipino values in our society,” Irinco explained.Musically, the song blends traditional Waray-waray rhythms with modern energy—an anthem that feels both familiar and energizing. Its integration of cultural roots and contemporary influences makes it resonate deeply with the youth.

Fanning the flames of creativity

The song’s production spanned two days for lyric writing and three weeks for music composition and recording. Collaborating with his nephew, John Cris Irinco, Cerilo ensured the melody was relatable to the youth while honoring cultural roots.”I considered that listeners of the song are mostly college students from different SUCs in Region VIII so that in crafting the lyrics and music it can be easily followed,” he shared.

“The only challenge we encountered was adjusting the music to captivate the attention of the youth while integrating cultural elements.”

Carrying the torch of resiliency

This 38th SCUAA Games, where 11 state universities and colleges in Eastern Visayas duel against each other, will serve as the forge where athletes can hone their skills and spark connections across the region. Each race and game reignites the spirit of unity and resilience that motivates student-athletes to overcome challenges and strive for success.

In every note and lyric, “Larab sa Kadaugan” carries a message of resilience and hope. It reminds us that true victory isn’t just about crossing the finish line but on keeping the flame of resilience, strength, and solidarity alive.

Article by Alrey John Lacaba