The Kansilay Dancesport Team (KDST) brought honor to the Philippines after winning top awards at two prestigious international competitions in Malaysia this August, proving that their dance is fueled not only by skill but also by purpose.
Guided by Head Coach Philip Lui Deocadiz, the team captured multiple medals at the Open World Penang Dancesport Championship on August 2–3 and the Negeri Sembilan International Dancesport Championship on August 9.
Both events drew elite competitors from across Asia and beyond, Deocadiz said.
But beyond the glamour of the stage, the team danced to raise awareness and support for children with special needs, making their victories more meaningful, he said.
“We are not aiming for the money. We are proud that we were able to show our talent internationally and help those in need,” said Deocadiz, 32, who also served as an adjudicator in Penang.
MEDAL HAUL IN PENANG
At the Penang competition, organized by Annie Oo with the support of the Penang State Government, the KDST’s winners were:
• Alessandrea Pescasiosa – triple gold in Under 10 Latin
• Chiska Rhian Agudon – two golds, one silver, and one bronze in Under 12 Latin
• Mikaela Jane Aguilar – one gold, one silver, and one bronze in Under 12 Latin
• Sheiney Czarine Duran – silver and bronze in Under 12 Latin
SUCCESS IN NEGERI SEMBILAN
The team continued their winning form a week later in Negeri Sembilan with the following victories:
• Chiska Rhian Agudon and Mikaela Joyce Agudon – double gold in Synchronized Latin Under 12
• Shang Carlo Alapa and Kianne Gee Roxas – silver and bronze in Novice I and II Latin
• Michael Angelo and Steph Sabalo Marquez – bronze in Professional Open Latin
MENTOR
A former national and international dancesport champion, Deocadiz has since shifted his focus to mentoring young athletes. His leadership has not only guided KDST to international recognition but has also elevated Silay City’s reputation in the global dance arena.
“KDST’s achievement is more than a win—it’s a shared triumph of young athletes, dedicated coaches, supportive families, and a proud community,” Deocadiz said.*