THE verve and exhilaration of dance attract people of all ages, as does the sense of community, the sheer pleasure of moving to music, and the physical closeness. In the process, young people learn more about themselves, break down inhibitions, stimulate their minds, and find new friends.

This is what hip-hop dance in San Carlos City is all about.

It is not about becoming popular or famous.

“It is getting out and enjoying dancing and having a good time,” says Jeff Moses Halaghay who is well-known as Pinoy Bae. “That’s so much more important for us.

“The benefits of dancing on an individual level can be life-altering if you can get past the fear of putting yourself out there,” says Ninio Cubero, who is also a member of the Bacolod’s Yuri Crew. “That very first step of coming into the studio is sometimes a frightening thing.”

“It can change relationships,” says Aljhon Ranile of San Carlos City Pinta Flores Dance Company. “It can help young people overcome shyness and give people a new lease on life. People get healthier physically, mentally and emotionally. And they have a skill they can go out and have fun with and use for the rest of their lives.”

Jeff, 21; Ninio, 23; and Aljhon, 21, all of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, have witnessed what learning to dance can do for a bashful teenager; for a man who thinks he has two left feet; and, for empty nesters searching for a new adventure.

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the trio, who originated from the different dance groups in the city, collaborated to create a single group saddled with a goal to inspire, touch and transform the lives of young people, utilizing their individual’s God-given gifts.

Popularly known as the San Carlos City Boys or SSC Boys, the group is now gaining strong grounds and earning a vast following. In fact, the group’s performances online went viral, domestically and internationally.

The SSC Boys have individual Tiktok accounts. For Jeff, @jeffmoseshalaghay; Ninio, @Niniomercadocubero; and Aljhon, @aljhonRanile.

The SSC Boys can perform a full-length dance concert, as back-up or front act for celebrity shows, and other various activities. They can be reached thru Cuberoninio6@gmail.com.