By MARK REY MONTEJO
The white-clad crowd provided a fitting backdrop as the National University Pep Squad completed a record-breaking ninth title win in the UAAP Season 88 Cheerdance Competition at the jam-packed Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Saturday, Nov. 29.
Performing sixth with a ninja-themed routine, NU dazzled the audience with an almost flawless performance that perfectly matched its costumes and props. Fans dressed in pink waved Japanese flags in full support, adding energy and color to the routine.
The NU Pep Squad also showcased its brilliance through sharp dance moves, high-flying stunts, and synchronized jumps that captivated the 20,129-strong crowd representing the eight participating UAAP schools.
Judges gave them 695 points, enough to secure its back-to-back championship.
Beyond the domination, NU also cemented its place in the competition history with an unprecedented ninth overall crown, surpassing University of the Philippines and University of Santo Tomas with eight titles apiece.
NU anchored its victory by topping in the tosses, pyramids, dance-overall effect and group execution departments.
The Adamson Pep Squad, performing with an adventure-themed routine, came in second for the second straight time with 659 points. It was also their fourth overall bridesmaid finish.
The FEU Cheering Squad also bagged the bronze for the second straight time by a hairline, posting 658.50 points with their “Batampinoy” theme.
Finishing fourth was the UE Pep Squad with 623 points, followed by the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe (618.50), UP Varsity Pep Squad (558), DLSU Animo Squad (546.5) and the Ateneo Blue Eagles Pep Squad (436.5).
Most fans donned white, the UAAP’s way of conveying its slogan of “Passion for Victory, Passion for Integrity! No to Corruption!” after the league urged them to do so as a show of support for the call for transparency and accountability in the government’s investigation of those involved in the systemic corruption.
