MANILA, Philippines — DEFENDING champions Far Eastern University Cheering Squad (FEUCS) will close out the performances at the 2024 UAAP Cheerdance Competition, set for December 1 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The performance order was determined during a drawing of lots held Wednesday morning at the Press Center of the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

FEU will be the final squad to take the mats after seven other teams showcase their routines in front of an anticipated sold-out crowd on the first day of the month.

"Happy kasi 'yun 'yung gusto namin [to perform eighth]. Kasi sa nine years ko sa CDC, hindi pa ko nag-eighth. Lagi akong fourth, fifth, sixth, o seventh, naglalaro lang do'n, but never eighth. Siguro si God na nagbigay ng hiling namin this time," said FEUCS head coach Randell San Gregorio.

The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles will open the competition, followed by the University of the East Pep Squad and eight-time champion University of Santo Tomas Salinggawi Dance Troupe.

Adamson University will close the first half of the program.

The second half begins with season host University of the Philippines Varsity Pep Squad, aiming for a podium finish, and the National University Pep Squad, determined to reclaim the championship.

De La Salle Animo Squad will perform next, followed by FEUCS, who are aiming for back-to-back titles and a record 22nd podium finish.

San Gregorio expressed confidence in his squad's experience, hoping it will be instrumental in their pursuit of a fifth CDC title.

"Alam na nila 'yung feeling na tumapak sa mats and it should bring them confidence. Pero other than that, every year, new team, new theme. Hindi naman kami nag-uulit. Siguro ang pinakamaganda nilang madadala sa competition is nakapag-laro na sila; yun lang," said San Gregorio, a UP Pep Squad product. TMT