Davao City's talented young dancers have once again put the Philippines on the international map, securing podium finishes at a prestigious competition in Asia.
Medal-Winning Performance in Hong Kong
At the recently concluded Hong Kong Open 2025, the Filipino pair of Bhenz Rudolf Owen Semilla from Francisco Bustamante National High School (FBNHS) and Francheska Dezzly Darvin from the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) delivered outstanding performances. The duo captured a silver medal in the DSA Asian Championship Single Dance Slow Foxtrot and a bronze medal in the Viennese Waltz event.
They also achieved a fourth-place finish in the competitive DSA Youth A Open category, where they faced top-tier dancers from across Asia, including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Continuing a Legacy of Excellence
This international success builds upon their already impressive record. The pair are fresh from a dominant showing at the Palarong Pambansa 2025, where they swept all six gold medals in the secondary dancesport competition, setting an unmatched legacy for the Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa).
Their winning streak continued into the PDSFI 4th Quarter National Championship in late October 2025, where they clinched gold in the U21 A category and bronze in Youth A. When asked about their total medal haul for the year in Philippine DanceSport Federation, Inc. ranking tournaments, Semilla reported an impressive collection of six golds, one silver, and one bronze.
An Emotional and Grateful Journey
In a Facebook Messenger interview with SunStar Davao, Semilla described the Hong Kong Open as "the most prestigious event" they have joined to date. The journey has been deeply meaningful for the athletes, who acknowledged it may be their final competition together as a youth pair.
In a heartfelt social media post, Semilla expressed profound gratitude to their support system. He thanked coaches Julie Flintham and Jeah Yonac for their belief and guidance, and their parents for their "endless love, support, and sacrifices." He also credited fellow competitors for inspiring them and creating fun memories.
The team also recognized local supporters, including NCCC Mall Buhangin for providing a regular practice venue and Danceline Merchandising for its backing. Semilla's talent was further highlighted when he was named a Rising Stars awardee at the 5th Siklab Youth Sports Awards on October 11, 2025, in Manila.
Through discipline and poise, this Davao-based dancesport pair continues to elevate the Philippines' reputation on the global stage, proving that local talent can compete and triumph among the best in Asia.
