For Henry Kenth Lumawag and Angela Marie Talatala, dance is more than just movement — it’s a story of resilience, determination, and heart.
With grit and grace, the pair waltzed their way to an impressive golden sweep, overcoming the odds stacked against them during the recent highly competitive National Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Games 2025 dancesport categories.
The duo, proudly representing the Soccsksargen region, hails from Holy Trinity College in General Santos City.
They earned six gold medals in samba, cha-cha, rumba, pasodoble, and jive, as well as the prestigious Grade A 5-dance event — a remarkable achievement made even more impressive by the personal challenges they overcame both on and off the dance floor.
“Super sulit po talaga na nanalo kami (It was truly worth it that we won),” Lumawag shared, the pride unmistakable in his voice.
“Alam po kasi namin ‘yung hard work na binuhos namin para dito sa competition na ito (We know the hard work we put into this competition),” he quipped as he recalled the countless struggles they faced, from injuries to last-minute adjustments, yet never allowing setbacks to dictate their performance.
Talatala, on the other hand, opened up about the unlikely beginning of their partnership. “Hindi po talaga kami ang original partners, bago lang po kami nag-pair (We are not the original partners; we just paired up recently),” she confided, noting the strong chemistry between them.
“That’s why it’s very overwhelming na nakuha po namin ‘yung gold (that we got the gold), we are so happy,” she added.
Talatala acknowledged that just moments before their performance, they encountered unexpected injuries. Nevertheless, their “fighting spirit” propelled them forward.
“Since nandito na kami, sabi namin, i-go na lang namin, i-enjoy (Since we’re already here, we said, let’s just go for it and enjoy it),” Lumawag added, emphasizing how mindset played a crucial role in their success.
Talatala echoed the sentiment, highlighting how they refused to let the opportunity slip away. “Hindi na po namin sinayang ang chance. Kahit nasaktan siya, ginawa pa rin namin ang best namin (We no longer wasted the chance. Despite his injuries, we continued to give our all).”
Juggling academics and training was no small task for Talatala, who is set to graduate this year.
Their demanding dance schedule compelled them to train tirelessly, balancing academics with rehearsals, motivated by the expectations of their supporters and the relentless desire to deliver a performance worthy of the Region 12 banner.
And, true enough, their determination and perseverance brought them victory and success.
Yes, they may want medals, but their passion, persistence, and partnership truly reflect their character and spirit.
This pair has shown that champions are made through commitment and courage, not just on the dance floor. (SRMP, PIA SarGen)
