Salinggawi is derived from the Filipino phrase "Salin ng mga dating Gawi at Lahi", which translates to "transfer of customs and traditions" in English.
[1] Along with her in this task are other dance teachers namely: Mrs. Delly Nabong, Mrs. Carmen Cruz, Mrs. Arce Garcia and volunteered students.
Other founders include Prof. Rod Escobar Cantiveros, faculty member of Artlets, Engineering and UST High School, and administrative assistant at the Office of Public and Alumni Affairs, who was in charge of publicity and promotion; and Prof. Ramon Dellosa of the School of Fine Arts and Architecture.
The transcribed researchers of dances were interpreted into steps and expression, thus, creating a stage presentation out of the repetitious classroom exercises.
Since its founding in 1967, Salingawi Dance Troupe had been invited to welcome foreign tourists and became a regular cultural group at restaurant owned by the famous Reyes family and some out of town performances.
Known for its class and grace, UST SDT is one of the most awarded, most popular and most sought-after cheering/dance troupe in UAAP and in the Philippines alongside its archrival yet U.P.
SDT was the first team to earn the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth title in the UAAP Cheerdance Competition.
The overlapping character poses implies that the members are composed of men and women who want to exemplify Salinggawi's aim for perfection in dance.
It will hone them to become well-trained performers and responsible Thomasian leaders who will enrich and propagate the nation's desirable culture through dance.
The perfect execution, well-synchronized, and creatively choreographed form of fouette made it a distinct feature of UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe in every Cheerdance routine.
A banner carrying their campaign slogan is displayed by the Thomasian audience and usually represented a bid for a consecutive win.