State(ment) University: How UP Did It Right
This is not to say that NU is not deserving. In fact, they are. Their stunts were flawless and their execution, perfect. I never saw shaky legs for second floors, as if they have only been training the entire school season and not doing homeworks. Their theme was unique in a way (because I’ve not seen Indian-y cheering since I’ve decided to become a fan of the competition) and their costumes were cool. Yes, they deserved to win. But I rooted for UP Pep.
While all the other schools were going for idk, tribes and whatever races, for convenience in choosing costumes and music and props (common knowledge), UP delivered a message. A friend of mine tweeted something like, but message is not in the criteria. And quite frankly, I want to bash him on the head. This is not the time to be shallow, really. Of course I knew that. Honestly, no matter how the results of the competition would have ended, it doesn’t matter, because for people who have seen and witnessed the show, UP won, no contest.
The cheer dance competition has always been a showcase of strength for men lifting, no, throwing women in the air. It is difficult enough to break from that status quo. To deliver it perfectly, that is beyond.
I may not be an Isko but I feel a little prouder that this generation has the balls to stand up and make a statement, and I salute UP for being a huge part of it. Maybe, just maybe, Rizal was right and there’s still hope, after all.