VSU AREV secures back-to-back championship at Philippine Rodeo Finals 2026

The Association of Rodeo Enthusiasts of Visayas State University (VSU-AREV) once again proved its dominance in the arena after securing the Overall Championship title in the student category held from April 13–17, 2026 at the Rodeo Arena in Masbate City.

Known as the VSU-AREV Wild Bisons, the team successfully defended its title from last year’s competition, earning a total of 34 points to emerge as the back-to-back champions in one of the country’s most prestigious rodeo events.

Showcasing cowboy grit and excellence

Organized by Rodeo Masbateño, Inc. (RMI), the Philippine Rodeo Finals gathers the country’s top cowboys and cowgirls to compete in traditional ranch skill events that highlight strength, precision, teamwork, and horsemanship.

Held annually in Masbate, known as the Rodeo Capital of the Philippines, the competition featured cattle and non-cattle events for both professional and student divisions. 

This year’s student category brought together 11 universities from across the country, including Central Luzon State University, Mountain View College-Bukidnon, Southwestern University’s West Side Rodeo Club, and VSU’s AREV Wild Bisons.

The weeklong celebration opened with a grand parade showcasing participating teams, horses, and colorful floats across the streets of Masbate City. The festivities also featured the traditional cattle drive, reenacting the historic movement of livestock from farms to ports, paying tribute to the province’s long-standing cattle ranching heritage.

VSU riders dominate key events

Guided by AREV advisers and faculty members of the Department of Animal Science, Mr. Julius Abela and Mr. Michael Dominic Garrido, the VSU-AREV Wild Bisons demonstrated outstanding teamwork and skill across several events.

Among the major victories of the team were:

• Mr. Jiremel Asilo Jr. — 1st Place, Steer Wrestling on Horseback
• Mr. Renie Cadiz, Mr. John Rabee Bermoy, Mr. Jade Lahoy, and Mr. Jojo Santianez — 1st Place, Casting Down Event (Men’s Division)
• Mr. Ed Antoni Ramos — Back-to-back Champion in the riding competition after successfully defending his 2025 title.

The team also secured podium finishes in several other events:

• Mr. Jade Lahoy — 3rd Place, Cattle Lassoing Wrestling on Foot (Men’s Division)
• Ms. Kathlen Shane Escultor, Ms. Ma. Catherine Malanog, Ms. Annie Grace Ongy, and Ms. Janine Sabandal — 2nd Place, Casting Down Event (Women’s Division)
• Ms. Kathlen Shane Escultor, Ms. Ma. Catherine Malanog, Ms. Vicky Ilo, and Ms. Annie Grace Ongy — 2nd Place, 4-Person Carambola (Women’s Division)
• Mr. Jiremel Asilo Jr. and Mr. Jade Lahoy — 2nd Place, 2-Person Carambola (Men’s Division)
• Ms. Kathlen Shane Escultor and Ms. Annie Grace Ongy — 3rd Place, 2-Person Carambola (Women’s Division).

Champion rider reflects on humility and perseverance

For Mr. Ed Antoni Ramos, winning back-to-back titles in bull riding was more than just defending a championship—it was a reminder to remain humble and determined in every competition.

Despite entering the arena as the defending champion, Ramos related that he always treats every rodeo as a fresh start.

“I always bear in mind that every competition that I step into always starts at zero,” Ramos said, adding that he views every contestant as equally driven to earn the championship buckle.

Behind his successful rides, however, were personal struggles and sacrifices that tested his resolve. Ramos revealed that he faced financial difficulties and concerns from his family about the dangers of the sport while trying to balance rodeo and his studies.

Still, he credited his faith in God and the unwavering support of his loved ones, teammates, and friends for helping him persevere through the challenges leading up to the competition.

“To sum it all up, I dedicate (my) every 8 seconds to my teammates, mentors, coaches, friends, my girlfriend, my relatives, my family and especially to God,” he said. “All glory and honor are His.”

Bringing pride to VSU and the Department of Animal Science

The team’s victory reflected not only their determination and discipline but also the strong support from the university and their home department, the Department of Animal Science.

By clinching another national title, the VSU-AREV Wild Bisons embodied the spirit of true cowboys and cowgirls, bringing honor and pride to the organization, the university, and the whole VSU community.

Their latest triumph further strengthens VSU’s growing reputation for excellence beyond academics, highlighting the university’s continued commitment to nurturing students who excel in leadership, culture, sportsmanship, and specialized fields such as rodeo competition.

This article is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 3: Good Health and Well-being; SDG No. 4: Quality Education; SDG No. 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG No. 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions; and SDG No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

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