From local stages in Aklan to the global spotlight in Dubai, Choreo’N Cream is living proof that with talent, grit, and a deep love for the craft, even a group from a small province can dream big—and dance even bigger. This July 12-13, 2025, the ten-member crew is representing the Philippines in the open division of the prestigious World Supremacy Battlegrounds (WSB) in Dubai.
The team is composed of John Michael Reyes, Billy Jay Solis, Kenchie Zea Fernandez, Kiert Whizly Tabanera, Jethro Rioja, Prince John Lenard Juanico, Nechol Andrade, Jan David Rein, John Paul Elizalde, and Jaylord Villanueva—young dancers mostly in their early 20s, united by their shared roots in Aklan and a burning passion for movement.
From hometown pride to international dreams
For Choreo’N Cream, every performance has always been rooted in pride for their hometown. “Representing our municipality in Aklan in local competitions is something we are always proud of, so we make sure to put in a lot of effort when the chance arises,” the group shared. After winning at the regional and national levels, stepping onto the world stage has become more than a dream—it’s a story of resilience and heart. “We felt honored to represent the Philippines and tell the tale of our struggles, passion, and dedication through dance on a global stage.”
Leading the group are Jethro Rioja, John Paul Elizalde, and Jaylord Villanueva, who have become anchors of the team’s journey. Yet behind their achievements lies a reality familiar to many grassroots talents—lack of resources.
Aklanon spirit fuels the journey to Dubai
The road to Dubai hasn’t been smooth. Financial challenges loomed large, but help arrived through unexpected but heartfelt support from fellow Aklanons. According to the group, “Actually, our team didn’t know them well until Ate Kristine Sumugat contacted them and asked for assistance in planning our trip, hotel stay, transportation throughout our stay in Dubai, food sponsorship, and a certain sum of money on top of our pocket money.”
They also learned about Aklanon sa UAE, a community that rallied behind them by organizing awareness events and extending financial assistance. “The fact that Aklanons are becoming well-known in the UAE and greatly assisting us on our path makes us feel honored and happy,” they said, expressing gratitude to Sir Benj Dela Rosa of Calivo Couture, Direk Markus Engr of UBE Production, and the Aklanon community. They also acknowledged the support of LGU Kalibo, the province of Aklan, and their families and friends who helped fund their journey.
More than moves—it’s a message
While many dance crews chase the spotlight, Choreo’N Cream dances with deeper purpose. “We always believed that dancing is an art with a broad message,” they said. “All of us dance because we have passion on it, but some dancers dance to impress. We Choreo’N Cream dance because we love dancing and our message is to feel every beat of the music while performing because it gives our heart the perfect rhythm to convey a message of love in what we do to the audience.”
Their performances aim to stir emotion—not just admiration for their skills, but connection to the stories they tell through every movement and facial expression. For the group, dance becomes a universal language of love, adversity, and triumph.
Unity in movement
When asked how they maintain synergy as a diverse group, the answer was simple: “Understanding, respecting, and focusing on our team goals helps us keep united as we prepare for an international competition. Without these three values, we would not be advancing on our journey.”
Their bond—built on shared struggles and victories—has only strengthened as the international competition nears.
For aspiring dancers from small provinces like theirs, Choreo’N Cream had this message: “Just keep moving and remember that dancing is an art that you ought to love if you have the passion and discipline to it. And always take care of your mental and physical health, as this is your weapon in achieving your ambition of dancing on a global stage and become an inspiration to future generations.”
