DRIVEN by the goal to represent the country and bring pride to their city, the Lapu-Lapu City dancesport team achieved a strong victory at the Negeri Sembilan International Dancesport Championship 2025 held in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, on Aug. 9–10.
Many of the winners were students from Pajo National High School, Marigondon National High School and Mactan Airbase Elementary School, whose performances stood out in various dance categories. Together, they brought home a total of 55 gold, 17 silver and five bronze medals from the two-day competition.
The student athletes trained for months, often balancing their schoolwork with long hours of practice. Coaches shared that the team spent afternoons and weekends refining their routines, focusing on timing, coordination and endurance.
Some even stayed after school to practice with their partners, showing dedication and discipline despite the challenges of their academic workload.
“I had an incredible experience showcasing my skills and passion for dance,” shared Sophia Maraine Iguianon, a student from Mactan Air Base Elementary School. “As a dedicated competitor, I joined multiple categories and was proud to achieve first place, second place, fifth place and seventh place.”
She said the competition was filled with high energy, talent and tough challenges, but it also became a valuable opportunity for personal growth and building connections with other dancers.
“It was a memorable and rewarding experience that has motivated me to continue improving and pursuing my goals in dancesport,” she added.
City officials and supporters praised the team’s achievement, calling it a milestone for Lapu-Lapu City. They emphasized that the victory proves local athletes can match the training and performance levels of more established teams from other countries. They also stressed the importance of sustained support for programs that nurture young talents to reach their full potential.
This achievement at the Negeri Sembilan International Dancesport Championship 2025 not only adds to the team’s growing list of the accomplishments but also motivates other young dancers to aim high.
It is a reminder that with hard work, persistence and the right guidance, students can excel not only in academics but also in sports and the arts, bringing pride to their community. Allyne May Abayon / University of the Visayas