by You see, I never really imagined myself joining a dance contest.
Not in Cebu.
Not anywhere.
And definitely not in Manila.
But Cebu Pacific made me do it.
Despite my very real and very irrational fear of standing in front of a huge crowd, I somehow found the courage to say yes. I honestly could not say no to the airline that gave me my very first fam tour experience back when I was still a newbie content creator and blogger. That opportunity helped shape my journey, and this felt like one of those moments where I had to show up, even if it terrified me.
So here goes. Storytime.
How It All Started
I learned about the contest just two weeks before the actual event. It was going to be the highlight of Ang Travel Vibes: The Cebu Pacific 30th Anniversary Kick-Off, an event that officially kick-starts Cebu Pacific’s yearlong celebration. And the dance contest was a 90s hits dance-off featuring teams from different parts of the country.
Thanks to Doc Xavier’s initiative, creativity, and pure will, we were able to form a group, come up with a routine, and prepare in such a short amount of time. And just like that, the Sugbo Tito Trio was born. Three 40-ish dudes representing the Cebu Hub in a 90s dance contest. Honestly, that alone still feels unreal.
The competition was right up our alley. We grew up with 90s music, after all. Still, knowing we had to perform in front of a massive crowd in Manila made everything feel extra intense.
From Parking Lots to Proper Practice Spaces
Our first rehearsals happened at the parking lot of Cebu City Hall after work hours. Imagine three tired guys trying to remember dance steps, counting beats, and laughing at ourselves in between takes.
Eventually, thanks to some amazing connections, we were able to move our rehearsals to a much better venue, the Casa CEA Event Space by Kimo Cea. That alone elevated our preparation big time.
Our choreographer, Ernesto, was incredibly patient and understanding. Which, honestly, we badly needed. His calm approach made learning the routine quicker and more efficient, especially considering our limited time.
To make things even crazier, Sinulog was happening in Cebu, so our schedule was packed. We only had a few days to fully rehearse, prepare our costumes, and finalize our props. But thanks to quick thinking, teamwork, and constant communication, we managed to pull everything together just in time before our flight to Manila.
The Big Day in Manila
We flew to Manila early on January 23 and checked in at Savoy Hotel Manila. After a quick refresh, we headed straight to Marriott Manila for lunch, stage rehearsal, and blocking.
That was when the nerves really kicked in.
Seeing the other teams from Manila, Iloilo, Palawan, Clark, and Davao made everything feel even more real. They looked so prepared. So polished. So confident. We found one quiet corner, did a quick run-through of our steps, hyped each other up, and before we knew it, it was time to get ready.
Showtime
The event was hosted by 90s icon Ms. Jolina Magdangal, who also performed her iconic hits, together with Ms. Zia Marquez of Cebu Pacific. Just seeing Jolina on stage already felt like a full-on ’90s throwback.
We also enjoyed performances by legendary 90s dance group Manoeuvers, headed by Joshua Zamora, Reden Cruz, and Michael Flores, who also served as the judges.
After the inspiring messages from Cebu Pacific President Sir Xander Lao and Ms. Candice Iyog, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, it was finally time.
And honestly, I do not even remember how I performed.
I think I blanked out.
Muscle memory took over. I just danced based on what I remembered from our rehearsals. All I recall clearly are the loud cheers and claps, especially from the rest of Team Cebu, which gave us that final push of energy.
After the contest, it was finally time for dinner. I must say, the food was amazing! The five-course meal was top-notch, perfectly matching the event’s theme and color scheme.
The Sugbo Tito Trio Won!
And then came the biggest surprise of the night.
We were named champions of the Galawang 90s Dance-Off.
We brought home 50,000 pesos, but more than that, we took home a memory that I know I will carry for life.
Everything felt surreal. From practicing in a parking lot, to performing on a huge stage in Manila, to standing there as winners. It still feels unreal as I type this.
Grateful Beyond Words
This entire experience reminded me why I said yes, even when fear was screaming at me to back out. Opportunities like this do not come often, and I am incredibly thankful I took the leap.
Thank you, Cebu Pacific, for the experience, the trust, and the unforgettable memories.
Indeed, you are where dreams fly.
See you again real soon!
LEY
