CARRYING SCHOOL honor, the Company of Ateneo Dancers (CADs) claimed first place with their performance at the World of Dance (WOD) Philippines – College Division on March 9 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

With a score of 92.83, CADs also earned the honor of representing the Philippines at the World of Dance Summit Competition, which will take place in Los Angeles, USA, later this year.

Portraying the push-and-pull of a romantic relationship, the Katipunan-based troupe staged a heart-rending performance to capture the “action, interaction, and reaction between couples” during an argument, as Head Coach Jesse “Reflex” Gotangco describes.

Despite a limited one-month training period and relatively new members in the lineup, the ensemble managed to move as one, exhibiting their mastery on the dance floor.

“We weren’t super expecting [anything], given that we had one month. But I think the training from the previous competition carried over for this one, so everyone was ready,” Coach Reflex said about CADs’ recent stint at Dance Supremacy Kings and Queens. After showcasing standout routines, the men’s and women’s divisions attained second place last January 2025, tallying 93.83 and 94.45 points, respectively.

Given various factors they have to consider, CADS has yet to fully commit to pursuing the WOD Summit 2025. Nevertheless, the troupe intends to maintain its display of excellence in the upcoming University Athletics Association of the Philippines Season 87 Streetdance Competition and its year-end concert.