MANILA, Philippines - The NCAA Cheerleading Competition unwraps today with Perpetual Help keen on extending its reign with new highlight act and routines before an expected full-house crowd at the SM MOA Arena in Pasay.
The Perps Squad turned in a near-impeccable all around stint last year to dethrone 2015 champion the Arellano Chief Squad, reclaiming the crown by just two points, 195-193.
The Las Piñas-based school now shoots for a league-best 10th championship against a field out to foil its back-to-back bid.
“It has always been a tradition to win it for our school and this year, we will do our best to keep the crown,” said Perpetual Help coach Ruf del Rosario.
In the recent drawing of lots, Jose Rizal U will perform first starting at 3 p.m. followed by Perpetual Help, Lyceum of the Phl U, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Arellano U, San Beda, Mapua and St. Benilde in that order.
Letran and San Sebastian have begged off from the competition.
While Perpetual Help is all set for a repeat, Arellano U is going all out to regain the crown with a new routine and tricks.
“It’s going to be a more exciting competition this year because we at Arellano U have prepared hard for this event,” said board member Peter Cayco.