THE THOMASIAN community is all
eyes on the once glorious Salinggawi Dance Troupe (SDT) as they attempt anew to
redeem lost glory in the UAAP Season 77 cheer dance competition.
Haunted by their performance last
season, SDT is under immense pressure to return to the podium, a feat they last
achieved in 2010.
SDT crashed to seventh place last
year, their worst finish in 19 years, in the competition where UST is an
established powerhouse after a historic five-year winning run from 2002 to
2006.
Last year’s Egyptian-themed
performance was marred with failed pyramids and an unpolished routine.
Head choreographer Ramon Pagaduan
IV will have his third chance to end Salinggawi’s seven-year title drought and
bring home a record ninth championship to UST.
Currently, ‘Gawi is tied with the
University of the Philippines Pep Squad for the most number of championships in
UAAP cheer dance history, with eight titles apiece.
The troupe has ramped up a social
media campaign with a video and hashtags like #stopthehate and #newsblackout in
apparent reference to naysayers and disaffected fans.
It was met with an outpour of support from fans who wish to see them back on top.
Facebook user Manding Paulino commented on Salinggawi’s photo, “Let’s bounce back! The whole Thomasian community is praying for your safety and victory! We roar as one! Go USTe!”
Phoenix Sy, with the Twitter handle @PHIMtastic, tweeted, “It will be a long journey. But it will begin with a single step. Go #Salinggawi loves. The whole Thomasian community is cheering for you!”
The SDT held a by-invitation only
viewing of their routine last Thursday, Sept. 11 at the Quadricentennial
Pavilion. The Varsitarian was barred
from entering the premises and conducting interviews. Angelica P. Abello and Josiah Darren G. Saynes
