THE University of the Philippines Pep Squad decided to skip this year’s UAAP Season 79 cheerdance set November 19 due to controversial events in their loss last season, according to an official statement on its Facebook page.
“Last year was one of the most striking seasons in the history of our team. If you have been following our story since, thank you for your interest and patience. Finally, we can share the news to those who have been wondering that, regretfully, we will not be part of this season’s UAAP Cheerdance Competition,” said the UP Pep Squad.
The UP Pep Squad said they have yet to hear from the UAAP regarding the issues they brought out, which even led to an official protest lodged on the result of last year’s competition won by the National University Pep Squad.
The UP Pep Squad contested last year’s results, saying that the competition criteria during last year’s competition were not followed.
“From our first request for an informal meeting, to the letter of protest advised by the organizers themselves, we have exhausted all our efforts to reach a resolution. We have repeatedly sought out the delegated individuals to no avail. And after many weeks, months, and now a year of waiting, our issues and questions remained unresolved,” the UP Pep Squad statement read.
“Reared in the institution we represent, we abide with our principles of honor and integrity, and stay true to our word of foregoing with the competition, should the same organizers be hired to handle the event again,” they added. “Though you may not all agree with us, we hope that our supporters will understand our decision and remain behind us in harnessing our freedom to prioritize our principles and the welfare of our student athletes.”
Despite missing this year’s competition, the UP Pep Squad bared it will still be competing in other events including this year’s Asian Cheerleading and Dancesport Competition.
Officials of the UAAP were not available for comment as of posting time.
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