For the last six years, the National University Pep Squad have competed in various parts of the world.
Literally, they were Team Pilipinas.
And for their performance in the UAAP Season 82 Cheerdance Competition, the defending champions made sure to give back to the country. They integrated numerous symbols and colors of the Philippines for their performance.
“Marami nang umaalis [ng bansa] na concept. Laging nasa ibang bansa, nagtu-tour sa Asia, sa Europe, kung saan-saan. It’s time na mag-give back para sa Filipinos,” shared NU Pep head coach Ghicka Bernabe.
“Sabi nga namin balik-bayan tayo ngayon.”
NU Pep had three costume changes during their six-minute run. They started off wearing barongs, before switching to a red, blue, and yellow attire. To cap off their performance, NU donned a sarimanok attire, moving flawlessly like the Philippine icon.
For their music, they used numerous OPM hits, including “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” and “Ito Ang Liga”.
“Our concept… ‘Yung Philippines kasi lagi namin siyang nagiging part ng concept, pero siguro ‘yun ‘yung time para isalang siya,” continued Bernabe.
Despite performing last, the 18,000-plus strong crowd inside the SM Mall of Asia Arena roared like it was just the beginning of the four-hour show during their masterpiece.
And it ended up with gold once more — the school’s sixth in seven years.
And the squad greatly appreciated the love they received. After all, who could boo that country?
“Lahat ng mga sumuporta sa amin noon napatunayan namin kung gaano nila kami kamahal, so dapat bigyan namin sila ng magandang performance.”
