Bringing P-pop to the nation through dance
For P-pop artists, joining a partner dance competition is a drastic step out of their comfort zone. In their respective groups, Jao (Alamat), Jeromy (Hori7on), Sophia (Kaia), Joker (1st.One), and Denise (Calista) perform routines that hinge on formations and synchronization. The goal is for multiple members to move as a unit, mostly through grid-based footwork and front-facing choreography for maximum visual impact.
But in “Stars on the Floor”—where each P-pop artist is paired with a celebrity contestant—the focus shifts to other aspects of dance that some of them have yet to fully explore.
Genuine connection
On this stage, mutual chemistry is the name of the game. Lead-and-follow dynamics are non-negotiable. Physical contact plays a more prominent role; lifts, assisted spins, and throws aren’t mere flourishes. Like group routines, duos also require precision, but ultimately they showcase—and reward—genuine joy and connection
“Nahiwalay ako sa group ko, so malaking adjustment talaga. Kailangan kong aralin ‘yong mga steps, but at the same time make sure that there’s chemistry between me and my partner,” says Jeromy, who’s paired with Chanty of the K-pop girl group Lapillus.
While they’re well-versed in hip-hop and other contemporary styles typically associated with P-pop, the contest also challenges contestants to learn styles and genres—like cha-cha-cha, jazz funk, and dancehall—whose discipline may contradict their expertise or bodily instincts.
“‘Di siya gano’n kadali, especially because ayaw namin na basta-basta sumayaw lang. Others have to study these styles for years, and these dances come from different countries. Ayaw naming makabastos ng ibang culture, so we give it our all to deliver them well,” says Joker, who’s paired with actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith.
Expression of individuality
This is where their P-pop background comes in handy. Because they underwent years of training before their debuts, they now have the patience and endurance to handle the rigor and tedium of learning unfamiliar styles. But as difficult as the process may be, they agree that it couldn’t be more fulfilling. Aside from revealing different facets of their artistry, the experience allows them to express an individuality they rarely get to showcase in group settings, where cohesion is king.
“Dito mas nailalabas ko ang personality at true self ko. If gusto kong magwala—love that, oh my God!” Jao tells Lifestyle Inquirer. “‘Di ko nagagawa ‘yon masyado sa P-pop kasi dapat doon, pogi-pogi ka. Dito, warla, let’s go!”
“Since iba-iba ’yong genres at themes, iba-ibang stories at emotions din ang ini-express mo,” adds Jao, who competes with former SexBomb dancer Sugar Mercado. “Ang ganda kasi nakakapag-explore kami, learn new things, and discover more about ourselves.”
Sophia has been dancing for more than half her life, and just when she thought she was already well-equipped, the show came along to remind her that the world of dance is bigger than she had imagined. In the process of learning and discovery, she reaffirmed what she had known all along—that the joy in dancing she first felt as a child has never left her.
“When you enjoy what you’re doing and put your heart into it, everything else will follow. You feel like you can do anything,” she says. “Panghahawakan ko ‘yon for the rest of my life.”
Sophia also cherishes the friendships she has made with her fellow P-pop artists and celebrities, including her partner, Paul Salas. “We often see each other during events, but dito talaga kami nag-connect,” she says.
In fact, despite being an introvert, Chanty never once felt out of place with the rest of the contestants. “Galing din naman ako sa group, so I’m familiar sa mga pinagdaanan nila, and the discipline and effort required,” says the singer-actress, who, despite being officially categorized by the show as a celebrity dance star, shares more in common with the P-pop contestants.
“‘Di ako nahirapan mag-adjust sa kanila, and I appreciate that they don’t make you feel the pressure, or that you have to catch up,” she adds.
General public
But perhaps more importantly, their participation offers an opportunity to introduce P-pop to the general public. Since the show airs on GMA 7—national television—they reach viewers who may not even be aware of P-pop. In effect, they act as ambassadors, introducing so-called casuals to the movement.
“We represent the P-pop community. People always ask for collaborations para mas maging maingay ang P-pop. Dito mas naipapakita namin sa maraming tao kung paano kami nag-wo-work,” says Denise, who’s paired with actor Rocco Nacino.
Indeed, true to the battlecry “P-pop Rise,” the competition isn’t so much about crowning the best dancer in a P-pop group, but about lifting each other up and championing the nation’s wealth of talent within the scene. And this only drives them to be the best representation of P-pop they can be.
“Mas maipapakita namin ang totoong talento ng P-pop,” Jeromy says.
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