GIL Lalongbilang wants to dispel the notion that ballroom dancing is only for matrons and geriatrics. ?Not true,? he insists, citing the fact that ballroom has become an integral part of many schools? curriculum. Gil says that ballroom dancing has also been classified a ?national sport,? and has gained entry into the Southeast Asian Games.

Lalongbilang knows whereof he speaks. He has helped ballroom enthusiasts develop self-confidence. I?ve started dancing myself at Black Betty?s in Greenhills and at Bykes in Makati City with Rose Bud (who inspires onlookers when she dances the Argentinian tango).

Health benefits

Gil serves as my dance instructor from time to time. He graduated with a degree in Industrial Arts. He was influenced greatly by his mother, who was into competitive dancing in her prime, and this eventually rubbed off on him.

Teaching has taught him discipline and patience. (He is assisted by Longine Etcuban.) Aside from the health benefits one derives from exercising, there?s much laughter and fun during his dance sessions.

Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 6:30 p.m., but he?s willing to open more classes during the week to accommodate people.

?There?s a resurgence in Latin dances like the salsa, cha-cha, cumbia, rhumba and melonga,? Gil shares. ?That?s apart from standard genres such as the tango, waltz and foxtrot. They don?t merely please the eye, they also fire up the imagination!?

Gil admit: ?I take this seriously because this is my bread and butter. I have a feeling I?ll be doing this for a long time!?

Gil conducts dance classes at Tara Gym at the Daily Supermarket shopping complex on P. Tuazon st. and 20th ave. in Cubao, Quezon City. Call him at 437-0669 or 0920 740-4347.

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