04/03/2026
NCR Palaro 2026 Highlights: Day 2 – Unity Dance Rehearsals and Floor Practice
Day 2 of the NCR Palaro 2026 Dancesport event was marked by preparation, collaboration, and a strong sense of unity among athletes, coaches, and technical officials from the different Schools Division Offices (SDOs) across the National Capital Region.
The morning began with a Unity Dance practice, setting a vibrant and cooperative tone for the day. Prior to the session, the Technical Officials held a short meeting to align responsibilities and encourage everyone to give their best in their respective posts, reinforcing professionalism and teamwork throughout the event.
Athletes from the different SDOs lined up in preparation for the program, which formally opened with a prayer led by Ms. Maria Teresa Tabernero. Inspirational opening remarks were delivered by the Assistant Tournament Officials, Ms. Liezl Alomia and Ms. Rosalie I. Dela Cruz, who emphasized discipline, excellence, and unity as guiding principles of the competition.
Important reminders regarding costume compliance were reiterated and finalized to ensure adherence to competition standards. This was followed by an energizing warm-up session led by Tournament Secretary Mr. Nicole Clavel.
During the Unity Dance rehearsal, the chorus part had already been memorized by both athletes and coaches, as they were given time beforehand to familiarize themselves with the choreography. Mr. Clavel focused on refining the steps to achieve clarity, precision, and unison in movement.
For the Elementary category, the practice was facilitated by Ms. Michelle Lobendino, Mr. Gerald Abad, and Mr. Paul John Macanang, while the Secondary category was handled by Mr. Nicole Clavel and Ms. Gretchel M. Garcia. Their guidance ensured that each group demonstrated proper technique, synchronization, and confidence on the dance floor.
After the athletes’ practice, the Technical Officials and coaches rehearsed their respective dance parts. The session concluded with everyone performing the complete Unity Dance together, seamlessly connecting all segments into one cohesive and spirited presentation.
In the afternoon, athletes’ kits and each SDO’s official banners were distributed. A dry run of the program flow for the following day was conducted to ensure smooth transitions and organized ex*****on. Athletes were also given time for floor practice to become fully familiar with the competition venue and dance floor.
To conclude the day, final reminders were delivered to the coaches by Ms. Rosalie I. Dela Cruz. An agreement was set emphasizing proper decorum, professionalism, and respectful conduct throughout the competition. She also reiterated the general flow and mechanics of the competition proper to ensure clarity and alignment among all delegations.
The Technical Officials once again convened to discuss final preparations and key reminders in anticipation of the following day’s events. The team carefully checked the venue requirements and ensured that all logistical and technical needs were in place, affirming that everything was fully set for the official competition.
Day 2 truly reflected the essence of the NCR Palaro: Unity, preparation, and a shared commitment to excellence in Dancesport. As anticipation builds for the main competition, the dedication displayed by everyone involved promises a remarkable showcase of talent, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Written By: Alyssa Kim M. Garcia
