ILOILO CITY – Cebu’s Salazar Colleges of Science and Institute of Technology (SCSIT) got off to a rousing start after ripping Capiz State University, 25-9, 25-10, 25-10, in the opening day of the 2023 Reserved Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Games at the University of San Agustin Gymnasium here on Monday, Aug. 14.

Playing in their biggest tournament yet, SCSIT head coach Ray Vincent Sanoria said the Cebuana cadets needed to shrug off some jitters before delivering a worthy performance in front of Sen. Francis Tolentino and Philippine Sports Commission Commissioner Fritz Gaston.

"We do not know how they play. But we just played our best game. Medyo kinakabahan pa mga players ko since this is the first time na naglaro kami sa ganitong klaseng venue.” Sanoria said.

“Hindi ko pa masabi ang chances namin kasi eight teams kami sa pool and I'm sure may magagaling na teams diyan.” added Sanoria, who had Ronamie Caturas leading the squad with 14 points.

“Mas gagalingan pa po namin. 'Yung teamwork namin po na mas lalong gagana at [umaasa] po kaming marami pa kaming matutunan,” Caturas said.

Meanwhile, Guimaras State University bucked a slow start and escaped Colegio de Santa Ana de Victorias, 18-25, 26-24, 25-23, 10-25, 15-11, while Leyte Colleges trounced IloIlo Science and Technology University, 25-19, 25-16, 25-17.

University of Iloilo won by forfeiture after University of Antique failed to show up in the venue.

Events in boxing, athletics and kickboxing will kick off on Tuesday at the Robinsons City Activity Center, Iloilo Sports Complex and SM IloIlo.