UP pep squad cops world cheerleading bronze

UP Pep Squad at the UAAP Cheerleading competition. Photo by Celest R. Flores

The University of the Philippines pep squad proved its mettle anew, this time in a bigger stage as it captured the bronze medal in the prestigious mixed team category of the recent sixth Cheerleading World Championships at the Hong Kong Coliseum.

The seven-time UAAP cheerdance champions debuted impressively with 417 points and finish third behind former world champion Japan (516 points) and Thailand (453) in the competition that drew 70 elite cheerleading squads from over 22 countries.

Making up the UP squad during the two-day event sanctioned and organized by the International Cheerleading Federation were John Paul Belarmino, Laurence Bautista, Richbert Asuncion, Irish Planes, Fiona Gali, Kathleen Madrigal, Beatrice Segundo, Kiko Cortez, Bien Insigne, Carlito Serrano, Zar Anthony Semsem, Matthew Alonzo, Noelynne Figueroa, Nessa Salvador, Marielle Baraza, Rafaella de Guzman, Gabrielle Tuazon, Raymond Santos, Mark Castro, Frances Munoz, Suyin Chua, Lara Limjap, and Patrick Paraso.

Laraine Perena coached the squad, assisted by Pio Opinaldo and Niño Antonio.
Judging was based on compulsory stunts, expression, speed, transition and synchronization, said Evan Alvia, head of the Philippine contingent whose outfits and gear were provided by Smart Sports.

Aside from the bronze medal, the Filipinos, who were also represented by the Centro Escolar University and Polytechnic University of the Philippines cheerleading squads, also wound up fifth both in the cheerdance and all-female categories.

UP coaches Richbert Asuncion and Jerome Cortes and mentor Julia Tuason of CEU and Angelo Lampitoc of PUP also helped out in the victory.