BAGUIO CITY – Tears of joy streamed down the faces of the members of the El Tribu D. Lucban participants after being announced as champions in the Drum and Lyre and Street Dance – Elementary Category competition held in Melvin Jones Grandstand and Football Grounds recently.
El Tribu D. Lucban bested four other competing groups, which gained them their second consecutive championship along with 150,000 pesos cash prize.
The Mabini Elementary School Drum and Lyre Corps and Street Dancing Group took home the first runner-up prize of 100,000 pesos, while the Tuba Central Drum and Lyre Corps secured second runner-up with a prize of 70,000 pesos. Other participants included the Manuel Roxas Elementary School Rhythmical Lynx and Rosario Elyu DLC, who also joined the Panagbenga Grand Street Dance Parade and competition.
El Tribu D. Lucban was also recognized for having Best Costume and Props. Mabini Elementary was awarded Best in Music and Tuba Central was cited for Best in Choreography.
The group comprises students from various grade levels of Lucban Elementary School. El Tribu D. Lucban Coach Melissa Ferrer stressed that preparations started 3-4 months before the competition and students were also trained early in terms of endurance. “Sulit lahat ng pagod namin… Mixed emotions, andun na yung puyat, yung sakit ng ulo kasama na jan. Pero nangingibabaw po talaga yung thankful kami kay Papa God, sa lahat po ng nandito, sa lahat ng parents, teachers lalong lalo na yung mga bata. Very thankful po kami,” the seven-year experienced mentor stated.
Coach Mel added that after 17 years of participating in the Grand Street Parade under the Drum and Lyre Competition, this marks its first back-to-back championship win. The parents, students, and teachers are all grateful for this achievement. By Aiyra Marzan
