Baguio City recently celebrated a significant achievement in the world of ballet as dancers from Ballet Baguio Elite secured two gold medals and one silver medal at the Asian Ballet Competition. The event took place on September 14, 2024, at the Aliw Theater in Pasay, Metro Manila, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication from the performers.
Victorious Performers
Three outstanding ballerinas represented Ballet Baguio Elite and brought home impressive accolades. Michel Jullianne Grace Quan, 21, emerged as a standout performer, winning the Best Performance Award in the Classical Solo - Adult Category and securing a gold medal. Her remarkable execution and artistry captured the attention of judges and audiences alike.
Sharing the spotlight with Quan was 23-year-old Phoeboa Rei Buen, who also won a gold medal in the Classical Solo - Adult Category. Together, they demonstrated the high caliber of talent that Ballet Baguio Elite has nurtured over the years. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Quisha Babas earned a well-deserved silver medal in the Classical Solo - Senior Category, adding to the team's overall success.
In addition to their medals, all three dancers were recognized with scholarship grants. Quan and Buen each received a 50% scholarship for the 2025 Ballet Intensive Program, while Babas was awarded a 30% scholarship. These grants highlight not only their achievements but also the potential for further development in their ballet careers.
The Influence of Coaching
Behind the success of these talented dancers is their dedicated coach, Jacqueline Go Ramon. Her relentless commitment to teaching and refining their skills has played a pivotal role in their accomplishments. In a heartfelt message on social media, Ramon congratulated her students, emphasizing the importance of persistence in the face of challenges.
She quoted, "As they say, 'Success is not the absence of failure, but the PERSISTENCE THROUGH FAILURE.' Congratulations to Ballet Baguio Elite's top 3 strongest girls! You have made, not only me but the entire Baguio City proud. On to the next!"
Ballet Baguio Elite's Journey
Ballet Baguio Elite has been steadily carving out its identity on the international ballet stage. Since the team's inception, they have participated in various competitions, showcasing their talent and determination.
In 2021, they celebrated their first international achievement by winning bronze medals at the Asian Grand Prix. The following year, they continued to build on their success by securing two silver medals at the Asian Ballet Competition. Now, in 2024, the team has finally reached a new pinnacle by earning their inaugural gold medals at this prestigious event.
Ballet Baguio Elite is the sole ballet organization in the City of Pines to achieve such recognition in ballet competitions, marking a significant milestone for the dancers and the community.
The achievements of these ballerinas not only bring pride to Baguio City but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring dancers in the region. Their hard work, talent, and perseverance exemplify the spirit of excellence that Ballet Baguio Elite embodies.
As Ballet Baguio Elite continues its journey, the community eagerly anticipates what the future holds for these gifted performers and the team as a whole. The recent success at the Asian Ballet Competition is just the beginning, and the dancers are poised for even greater accomplishments in the years to come.
