CASScading Into The Spotlight: CASS crowned overall 2nd runner up for Palakasan 2024

by Andrea Alexa Barga and Jazel Ann Maghilum

The CASS Lethal Arachnids have finally come out of their matchbox and into the spotlight of Palakasan 2024. More than a month-long journey of hard work and an aspiring display of camaraderie and fusion of talents in each kingdom were showcased throughout the adventure. Amongst the formidable challengers,the College of Arts and Social Sciences stood its ground in each fight, reigning over numerous events and bagging awards left and right.

Bringing home over eighteen wins, including special awards, the students of the College of Arts and Social Sciences could not be happier as they were crowned overall 2nd runner-up. What a night! As each announcement keeps the arachnids gripping to their seats, feeling the tension and then erupting in screams of glee when they call out “ College of Arts and Social Sciences”. A full on display of illuminating green power, dominating the entire gymnasium with the spiders might.

Coming in hot, here at the sports events both volleyball men and women’s chess came at 2nd runner up, as Futsal men rose up to 1st runner up. Meanwhile, in E-sports, the fight was legendary and godlike as our players placed 2nd in both DOTA 2 known as Defense of the Ancients and MLBB ( Mobile Legends Bang Bang). Along with the battle of pens and papers, the literary events came up to 2nd runner up in both Radio broadcasting and scriptwriting, as well as Chancellor’s Cup in debate. Erstwhile, in the culture and arts category both Mass Dance and Fantastic Singer also placed 2nd runner up.

Lights. Camera. Action! One of the greatest highlights throughout the event was the 6 award sweep in the Film category, garnering Best director, Best screenplay, Best production design, Best Sound editing , Best Editing and of course the Short film Champion with the film entitled “ Better Dead than Dying”. Meanwhile, Old McDonald’s Farm still got it, as the performers showcased such an amusing display of the iconic children’s song, taking the 1st place for Wannabe competition.

Also, with our contestant’s from Mx. IIT Influencer and Drag Superstar’s alluring power of confidence and grace, this year's Palakasan will forever be an iconic one as the Arachnosphere wins back to back as well as claiming the title of Overall Champion in Special Events.

But before all these wins, battles were fought inside the classrooms, on the stage, and behind the scenes. A long day of tallying and calculating scores, and the deliberation from the Ethics and Grievance Committee. It was not an easy fight.

“Winning means a lot to me, because CASS has been used to just being in the corner and just watchers, but now we are part of the Top 3. We have emerged from where we initially were.”

September Daohog, CASS Ethics and Grievance Chairperson.

“I can't put into words, but it was hectic and tiresome. But at the end of the day it was all worth it.”

Ban Encabo, CASS Ethics and Grievance Undersecretary

This journey has shown that CASS is not just CASS; it thrives and shines in the spotlight, full of gifted and motivated students who go above and beyond expectations. These people, who take great pride as "Arachnids," are resilient, tenacious, and steadfast in their pursuit for excellence. Their combined accomplishments stand as a powerful monument to their strength together as a team and the limitless potential that each student is capable of. With upcoming battles approaching, the Arachnids are, more than ever, clearly in a position to defy expectations and show off their skill and perseverance in the competitive arena. It would be a mistake for watchful eyes to miss this college's formidable skill and unyielding spirit.

“CASS will not be oppressed by any entity, because CASS will always speak for the truth.”

September Daohog, CASS Ethics and Grievance Chairperson