Written By Lanz Joseph B. Borja | March 22, 2026
Photographed By Edwin B. Romero
SBCA Seniors Varsity Cheer secures 2nd Runner-up in 56th WNCAA Competition
ON March 15, the SBCA Junior and Senior Varsity Cheer Teams showcased their talents at the 56th WNCAA Cheerdance and Cheerleading competition, held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila.
The Grand Stage
The competition brought together cheer teams across three divisions: Midget, Junior, and Senior. SBCA, competed alongside 12 other institutions, including, Philippine Women University (PWU), Centro Escolar University (CEU), University of Makati (UMak), University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P), De La Salle Zobel (DLSZ), University of St. Thomas Angelicum College (USTAC), Assumption College San Lorenzo (ACSL), Assumption Antipolo (AA), Miriam College (MC), St. Paul College Pasig (SPSC), St. Stephen’s High School (SSHS), and St. Scholastica's College (SSC).
Adding to the atmosphere of support, the San Beda University (SBU) Cheer Squad was also present, offering their support to fellow Bedans.
Results and Triumphs
Each competitor brought energy and sharp routines to the mat, showcasing their relentless, rigorous preparation for the competition.
In the Midget division, SPSC emerged as Champion, with MC securing first runner-up and ACSL taking second runner-up.
Miriam College clinched the title in the Junior division, with SPCS finishing as first runner-up, and DLSZ securing second runner-up.
Lastly, in the highly competitive Senior’s division, UA&P was crowned as champion. CEU then placed for first runner-up, while SBCA earned a second runner-up—marking a significant milestone for the team.
Photographed By Edwin B. Romero
Beyond the Win
Following their performance, SBCA Senior’s Varsity Cheer Team Captain Cera Rios (IV-BSBA-MM) shared the message behind their routine during a post-performance interview.
Rios highlighted the team's unity and its importance throughout the competition.“Since we came here for one goal, which is to perform and enjoy, and with each other’s support, we achieved it and accomplished it,” she said.
In a separate interview with THE BEDAN HERALD, Christer Allyza Tibon, Captain of the SBCA Seniors' Cheer Team, described their podium finish as a long-awaited breakthrough.
“It was really such a surreal moment. The minute our school name was called, we just couldn’t believe it. Ever since I first started cheer, we would always be 1 point or 5 points behind from getting crowned as 2nd Runner-Ups and finally being able to step onto the podium, carrying not only the team but San Beda’s name? I can say I am really proud of the team and forever grateful to have someone like Coach Chan and Coach Jolly who constantly motivated us and pushed us to be better athletes,” the Captain shared.
Christian Jay Bautista, or Coach “Chan”, the coach of the Seniors Varsity Cheer Team since 2016, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of their achievement.
“We were so happy to hear that our team won bronze after a 7-year drought. We are grateful to the team members, especially our captains, for their dedication,” he said.
Overcoming Obstacles
Preparation for the competition brought its own challenges, particularly in recruiting new members. Tibon explained that many students hesitate to join due to the demands of the sport.
“For some, being in college was the time to focus on academics or to finally be free to hang out with friends and have fun. Cheer is an emotionally, mentally, and physically draining sport,” she said.
Tibon also addressed the perception that a lack of prior skill or experience hinders students from joining. She expressed hope that their performance in the competition would demonstrate to aspiring cheerleaders that passion and motivation are far more important than pre-existing abilities.
When asked about the team’s perseverance amid challenges, she stated that the team’s resilience stems from their strong support system and through one another.
“But, me and the seniors sometimes have to give the younger ones the hard truth just to get through a slump during training. That’s not coming from a share of malice, but rather from a place of care,” she shared.
She emphasized that a large portion of the Seniors Cheer Team consists of first-year college rookies. “It's never too late to start your passion. So from our team, it is really never too late. If you want to start now, take the chance; take the opportunity because you will never know, you’ll shine in this, in anything that you do.” she added in the post-interview.
Photographed By Edwin B. Romero
Strengthening the Legacy
Looking ahead, Tibon offered a message to future members of the teams: “To the next batch, when faced with an opportunity — don’t ask yourself if you are ready for it, instead just take the plunge. Opportunities are not an assessment of who you are at the moment; it’s more of how you want to see yourself in the future.”
She continued, “So with it, take the pain, take the hardship, you’ll figure it out in the end — I believe in you.”
Coach Chan credited the Senior Cheer Varsity Team’s remarkable perseverance during preparation, particularly among the officers. The coach witnessed their dedication to the team and their efforts as they also went the extra mile to keep the team intact. Furthermore, he reminded aspiring cheerleaders not to box themselves within their own bubbles.
“Prepare yourselves to go out of your comfort zones, be open to learning, and stay humble,” he said.
After their 2nd runner-up win in the 56th WNCAA Cheerleading and Cheerdance Competition, the SBCA Seniors Varsity Cheer Team sets its sights on another victory at the next WNCAA Season.
Volume 31 | Issue 9
