By: Rylie San Juan
A group of student-athletes wearing CSJL jerseys stand together with raised fists, showing unity and team spirit during what appears to be a school or sports-related event. Photo courtesy: Roni Calupitan | The LANCE
The celebratory recognition and ceremonial send-off began with a thanksgiving mass on the morning of January 22, 2026, held at the Letran Chapel. The event honoured the achievements of Letran athletic teams in the NCAA Season 101.
After the mass, the athletes proceeded to the St. Thomas grounds, where the victory party would officially commence. The introduction of athletes followed as each team was introduced and took center stage.
First in line were the Letran Squires. After dominating the juniors basketball tournament in season 101, the Squires bagged the chip in convincing fashion.
The Finals MVP, Justin Cargo, shared a few words with the crowd, thanking the Letran community for the unwavering support. Coach Andrew Estrella, the head coach of the Squires, received the Coach of the Year award and was also recognized at the event.
Coach Andrew provided his insights on the struggles of the team and how thankful he is to the entire Letran community. “Our journey was really challenging… I never imagined standing here right now,” he stated.
The event also marked the introduction and send-off of Letran’s volleyball teams, the Knights and Lady Knights. The team captains, John Wayne Araño and Lara Mae Silva, along with their respective head coaches, Brian Esquibel and Mayette Carolino, took the stage, calling for support and prayers from their fellow Letranites as they head into battle in the upcoming season 101 volleyball tournament.
After recognizing the student-athletes, the crowd was ready for the highlight of the victory party. With the previous banner coming from their back-to-back championships in seasons 98 and 99, it was time to raise the newest addition. As the 15th banner of the juniors basketball team was raised, the Letran Squires cemented their legacy in high school basketball.
As the celebration concluded, students were filled with excitement and the feeling of triumph as they celebrated with the athletes who brought glory to Letran.
In an interview with the LANCE, Adriane Roncal, a senior high school student, shared his sentiments on the victory party and the upcoming volleyball tournament, “Masaya kasi first time ko umattend ng victory party… Excited din ako para sa volleyball kasi alam ko na malakas pareho ‘yung Knights at Lady Knights,” he shared.
The stage is set for the opening of the NCAA Season 101 Volleyball Tournament on Friday, Jan. 23, at the San Andres Sports Complex. The Letran Lady Knights will make their tournament debut against the Arellano Lady Chiefs at 2:30 p.m., followed by the Letran Knights’ matchup with the AU Chiefs at 7:00 p.m.