Tribu Rizal claims championship title in second attempt at Panagbenga’s Street Dance Competition

Tabuk City, Kalinga - Adopting the spirit of persistence, Tribu Rizal ventures once more into the renowned Panagbenga Festival’s street dance competition and seized the championship on their second attempt.

More or less 135 spirited Rizal National School of Arts and Trades street dancers, along with their coach, teachers, and supportive parents, set off for Baguio City to represent Kalinga in the said event held on February 24th.

They are among the seven contingents from various local communities and places that competed in the street dance–festival category.

“Dinala po namin ang culture and traditions ng mga taga-Kalinga from the costumes, music, and choreography,” Coach Ryan Greg Solsoloy emphasized in an interview with GURU Press Cordillera, highlighting the distinctiveness of their team compared to other participants, leading them to triumph.

Solsoloy reflected on their challenging behind-the-scenes journey, grappling with just a week to practice amid exhaustion and stress.

However, they remained undeterred, delivering a breathtaking performance and validating every ounce of effort expended.

“…one week preparation lang…sobrang nakakapagod, nakaka-stress and lahat, pero talagang worth it ang pagkapanalo namin,” he stressed.

He was astonished by their win, bringing them immense happiness and making him even prouder.

“I’m very happy and I can’t imagine or masabi ang nararamdaman namin ngayon. Nakaka-proud,” he added.

In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, he extended sincere appreciation to the individuals and organizations from Kalinga whose efforts contributed to their glory, including respected public servants, generous donors, dedicated educators, supportive parents, and every beat of the Kalinga community.

Apart from being the champs, the group also earned three special awards, namely Innovative in Musical Arrangement, Excellence in Festival Dance Costume, and Festival Dance Choreography.

Narvacan Naisangsangayan and BCNHS Special Program for the Arts secured 2nd and 3rd places, respectively.

As a reward for their triumph and in acknowledgment of their exceptional aptitude and skill, the city government of Baguio gave a monetary prize of P200,000.