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CEBU, Philippines - The defending champions in both Sinulog-based and Free Interpretation Categories assured the public that something new can be expected from their performance this year.

Sinanduloy Cultural Troupe of Tangub City and Culturang Placereño of Placer, Masbate aims to bag the grand wins once again using new concepts and well-researched ideas that they have been brain-storming months ahead.

Tangub City costume designer and one of the choreographers, Roberto “Bitoy” Gonzales, said the public may expect a brand new Tangub City from costume to props to execution as they vie for their ninth championship.

He said they decided to change their style upon observing that others have started to imitate their movements. He assured, though, that everything is a lot better than what the people have seen from them in the past years. He added that there is more to their golden traditional Maria Clara and Jusi Piña Barong.

Not to spoil the surprises but to stir excitement, he said their performance will be dwelling on the history of Sinulog.

 Meanwhile, last year’s winner for the free interpretation category, Placer, Masbate will join again in the Sinulog competition but this time, for the Sinulog-based category.

Placer won in 2010 and in 2011in the Free Interpretation category.

Their choreographer, Barry Luche, said that win or lose they would still be feeling as winner because of the efforts that the dancers and the production staff have given.

Winning the contest would only be a bonus, he said, as their primary purpose of joining is to give an offering to the Sto. Niño. He said 80 percent of their dancers this year are first timers.  (FREEMAN)