Far Eastern University has officially stepped into the spotlight as the host of UAAP Season 89, unveiling the theme “For Everyone, UAAP” and setting an opening date of September 12, 2026 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. With this hosting stint, FEU takes the baton from University of Santo Tomas, which just wrapped up a celebrated Season 88 that set a high bar for production and spectacle.
The official turnover happened during the Season 88 closing ceremony at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion on May 15, where UST’s Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang handed the UAAP flag to incoming host FEU and Season 89 chairman Juan Miguel R. Montinola. FEU President Montinola expressed gratitude to the UST community and acknowledged the challenge of matching their hosting standard.
What ‘For Everyone’ Means
The theme “For Everyone, UAAP” signals FEU’s intent to make the upcoming season inclusive and community-driven. A teaser video released during the turnover featured appearances from rapper Gloc-9 and comedian-host Vice Ganda — hinting at a season that will put Filipino culture, entertainment, and accessibility front and center. Incoming UAAP president Mark Molina emphasized that the university is already deep into preparations, aiming to create something the UAAP and FEU communities can be proud of.
FEU brings a unique energy to the hosting role. Known for its passionate Tamaraw community and the iconic green-and-gold, the Morayta-based university is one of the league’s founding members and holds a rich basketball tradition — including titles in Seasons 1, 2, 10, 20, 21, 22, 23, and more across the decades.
What This Means for Fan Apparel
A new host school always brings fresh merchandise opportunities. With FEU at the center of UAAP Season 89, expect Tamaraw-branded gear to see heightened demand. Varsity Lifestyle Co., the UAAP’s official licensed merchandise partner, already stocks FEU-specific items including FEU oversized sweatshirts (₱1,750), varsity jackets (₱2,250), Dri-Fit activewear (₱1,000), caps, keychains, and stickers. As the season draws closer, fans can reasonably anticipate season-specific FEU hosting merchandise and possibly a commemorative Season 89 logo collection.
Additionally, the FEU Tamaraws 2026 basketball jersey is currently available through online retailers, featuring full sublimation printing and customizable name and number options — perfect timing for fans gearing up for the new season.
Looking Ahead to Season 89
Season 89 represents a fresh chapter after a competitive Season 88 that saw DLSU claim the men’s basketball championship over UP. The offseason has already been eventful, with notable roster movements including the commitment of former UAAP high school MVP Kieffer Alas to Ateneo — the first four-time NBTC All-Star who will be eligible for a full five years starting Season 89. FEU’s own recruitment pipeline remains active, having secured commitments to retain key junior program standouts.
The September 12 opening at Mall of Asia Arena is expected to draw a massive crowd of students, alumni, and fans from all eight member schools. For those planning to attend, showing up in your school’s official gear is the move — and Varsity Lifestyle Co.’s full catalog is available now across their website, Shopee, and Lazada storefronts.
phshirt.com will continue covering UAAP Season 89 developments, including merchandise drops, jersey releases, and school apparel launches.