UP Pep triumphs 3-peat

By: Alfredo E. Navarro III

The University of the Philippines Pep Squad once again defended their title as this year’s champion in the Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition held in the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City last Sept. 22.

With their Freedom-themed routine, the UP Pep Squad bagged their third straight win and eighth Cheerdance championships tying the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe.

TheDiliman-based cheerdance team once again thrilled the crowd of 19,509 with their well-executed routine, clean lifts, tosses and stunts and shocking shaved heads.

According to the team’s former co-captain Lawrence Martin Bautista, they wanted to look simple as possible; they wanted to show other schools that they’re a “free university.”

"Marami kaming pinakitang stunts na pang-international level. Pinahirap namin para ma-appreciate ng international judges," Bautista said.

Giving reverence to Alopecia Awareness Month, UP cheerdancers donated their hair to create wigs for cancer patients. “Gusto naming ipakita na kahit walang buhok, pwedeng maging strong and confident," added Bautista.

Finished second was the Far Eastern University Cheering Squad with their jungle-themed routine.

This year's hosts, National University, took home their first podium finish – being the second runner-up, performing a Disney-themed routine.

"We're so proud! We vow next year nabibigyan pa naming sila ng mas magandang laban," said NU coach Ghicka Bernabe.

Meanwhile, UST landed fourth, followed by DLSU, ADMU and UE with their Brazilian, Boxing, Anime and K-Pop routines respectively.