Features

Roaring in the Lion’s Den: Batch Cheer Dance 2025

By Haniel Andrea V. Mizukami | January 22, 2025

CHEERS echoed outside the Fr. Bellarmine Baltasar Gymnasium as the Integrated Basic Education (IBED) K-10 students showcased their Batch Cheer Dance Competition last Jan. 17 as part of the Sto. Niño festivities. The event showcased Pinoy Pop Music (PPOP), performed by the IBED K-10 students, using eye-catching and vibrant props and costumes.  

Showcasing Bedan Talent and Skills

     For the first time, Tatak Bedista TV, the official broadcasting channel of San Beda College Alabang (SBCA), broadcasted the event for this year’s Feast of Sto. Niño, live. 

     Marking the beginning of the program, Rev. Fr. Gerardo Ma. De Villa, OSB, expressed his opening remarks, relating the event to the celebration of the Feast of Sto. Niño. This was followed by IBED K-12’s Principal, Ms. Vilma B. Clerigo, who acknowledged the talent and efforts of the students in preparing for this event. 

     From the left side of the gymnasium, the ‘Diyestella’ team, representing Grade 10, took the stage as the event’s opening performers. With their passion and witty props, they turned heads as they cheered their original chants. “Laban Diyestella!” was a stellar performance as the first act.

     “AH! Watcha looking for, we know whatcha looking for!” The defending champion,  ‘Octaverse’ (Grade 8), left the crowd wondering as they proved they were back to reclaim the title for another year. With their blue and purple pom poms, their rendition of the “Azu Ima Yell”, one of famous chants in San Beda, was one of the iconic parts of their performance. Like a perfect octave, they were as synchronized as they can be.

     “Sino ang pinaka malakas? Supremo!” Fierce, competitive, and full of burning passion, the ‘Siesta Supremo’ (Grade 7) conquered the field. With their energetic introduction up until their fiery performance, they have truly set the stage on fire. With their iconic pyramid formation, they have left the audience in awe with their bursting energy throughout the place. 

     Last but not least, the “Laban Grade 9” was heard all over the gymnasium. With their pink and green pom poms, they manifested a sharp but graceful performance. Their performance during the “Amakabogera” was truly stunning. With their costumes and props, they are definitely like nature: calm but with competitive energy, ready to take the stage with flowing grace. 

Setting a New Record 

     Time seems slower as the competition reaches its peak and the awarding ceremony has finally begun. Cheers were still loud as the atmosphere intensified while awaiting the announcement. 

     The first special award, Best Cheer Dance Attire, was bagged by ‘Octaverse’ (Grade 8). Erin B. Roa, a performer also from Grade 8, received the Best Cheer Dancer award for her outstanding performance in the field. They also claimed the Best Batch Spirit award, sweeping all the special awards in the event. 

     For the major awards, Grade 9 secured the title of Third Runner-up followed by Grade 7, who cemented their place as the Second Runner-up. The last two major awards were announced — the first runner-up was claimed by Grade 10, making Grade 8 the back-to-back champions.

     To conclude the event, all students, teachers, and staff celebrated by singing the Bedan hymn. Who will be the winner of next year’s event? Stay tuned for the next Sto. Niño festivity!