Cebu and dancesport

“Dance sports will become a regular feature of these (Games), a fitting tribute to Cebu, which is one of the most active cities and provinces in the dancesport competition.” – President Marcos

Cebuanos are over the moon with Pres. Marcos’ acknowledgment of dancesport’s growth in the province over the past 25 years. It is now a regular medal sport inthe Palarong Pambansa currently being held in Cebu itself, a great cause for celebration.

The principal author of the province’s success in dancesport is Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Edward Hayco, who has devoted the last quarter of a century of his life to developing dancesport not just for competition, but for young people to be able to earn a living.

“This is a sport which can immediately become a livelihood,” explains the proud Cebuano businessman. “A young child can earn P300 for one dance at a barangay fiesta or birthday party, and more as they get older. “

Edward and his wife Eleanor discovered their passion for the sport, which led to the birth of Team Cebu City Dancesport, now one of the most dominant, productive sports organizations in the country. In past Philippine editions of Southeast Asian Games, dancesport has been a source of sure gold medals for the country. In 2008, Cebu also earned a Guinness Record for World’s Largest Dance Class. This was followed by other record-breaking sports by the city and province.

“Young people who take up the sport learn so many things,” adds Hayco, who was chairman of Cebu City Sports Commission for over a decade. “They learn consistency, discipline, and grooming.”

Over 50,000 youth have had their lives changed for the better because of Cebu’s dancesport development. It has spread beyond the province, with a huge volunteer force that passes on what they have learned, paying it forward. It is heart-warming to see.

And that is why Cebu is synonymous with excellence in dancesport.