DISPLAYING GRACE under pressure, the Company of Ateneo Dancers (CADs) secured a top-five finish in the 2025 World of Dance (WOD) Finals, held on July 20 during the WOD Summit Competition at the Los Angeles Convention Center in California, United States of America.
With an impressive overall score of 95.37 in the World Finals, the Atenean troupe emerged as the highest-scoring group among the three Philippine delegates participating in the illustrious competition.
Similar to their dance number from the WOD Philippines tournament last March 9, their global rendition conveyed a tale of two lovers caught in a push-and-pull dynamic over the phone. With less performers compared to their previous routine, the piece built on emotions that one can feel in an unhealthy relationship.
Further unpacking the emotion behind the piece, Head Coach Jesse “Reflex” Gotangco shed light on the narrative that drove the team’s performance. “It’s about the grief and bargaining stages—the panic, the memories, [and] the voices we struggle with in our heads before finally coming to terms with letting go,” shared Gotangco.
Before CADs could share their piece on the global stage, the team encountered financial setbacks that initially threatened their ability to perform at the WOD Finals. However, through sheer grit and determination, the squad managed to gain sufficient monetary support from family and sponsors.
WOD Team Project Head Keiser Sabio recalls CADs even going as far as hosting dance classes to raise the necessary funds. “Our hardworking fundraising department, headed by Kim Omila and Uno Ramos, curated the various initiatives we would undertake this year to raise funds for the team,” said Sabio.
Despite facing adversity en route to the world stage, CADs managed to persevere and deliver a performance to remember.
Having proven their team synergy and skill, the premier dance and production management organization is poised to continue its quality performances throughout the incoming academic year. The group is also preparing for the upcoming University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 88 Streetdance Competition set to take place next year.
