The National University Pep Squad celebrate after winning the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 Cheerdance competition at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on December 1, 2024. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN NewsMANILA -- National University emphatically reclaimed the UAAP Cheerdance Competition crown from Far Eastern University on Sunday evening, showcasing a near-flawless routine in front of a roaring crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena.

One of the members the team relied on to lift them back to the top of the podium in Season 87 was base John Paul Laurence Cabido, fondly known as "Longlong," who despite having a disabled hand, proved to be an invaluable asset. 

"Sobrang saya namin! Lahat ng pinaghirapan namin, dugo, pawis, sakripisyo namin nasuklian ngayon," Cabido said. 

READ: NU Pep Squad goes 'out of this world' to reclaim UAAP Cheerdance crown

The cheer dancer, recruited by NU in 2019 after impressing scouts with his medal wins at the Palarong Pambansa, hopes his journey inspires others to likewise believe in themselves, no matter the challenges they face.

"Sinasabi sa'kin ng coaches ko, ako yung simbolo ng impossible naging possible. Lahat ng tao basta may pangarap matutupad basta may sakripisyo at tyaga. Nothing is impossible pag may tiwala sa sarili. Sa lahat ng may gantong kapansanan, o sitwasyon," he reasoned.

Cabido stressed the importance of surrounding oneself with people who can empower and give them the strength to face obstacles head-on.

"Lagi sinabi ng coaches, 'di ako iba sa ibang tao. Nagagawa ko lahat ng ginagawa nila. Lagi tumingin sa sumusuporta at nagtitiwala sa inyo," he added

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NU's John Paul Laurence Cabido after the UAAP Season 87 Cheerdance Competition. Anna Cerezo, ABS-CBN NewsLike Cabido, who hails from General Santos City, most of the members of the NU Pep Squad came from far flung provinces across the Philippines. 

"Sila nagre-represent ng Pilipinas. All over the Philippines, we recruit them at nakikita natin effectivity. At nakakatulong tayo sa kanila to get an opportunity outside," head coach Gabriel Bajacan said. 

Following NU was Adamson University's Karaoke Medley-inspired performance, while Far Eastern University's Frozen-themed routine rounded out the top three in third place.

"Sobra nag step up silang lahat. Grabe pinaghirapan at dedication ng bawat team. Kaya di namin in-expect," Bajacan admitted.

This victory ties NU with the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and the University of the Philippines for the most cheerdance titles in UAAP history.

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