The University of the Cordilleras Cheer Jags proudly represented the university at the 2nd Philippine Cheer Union (PCU) National Grand Prix 2026, held on October 24, 2026, at District 2 Gymnasium, Commonwealth, Quezon City. Competing in the Open Coed Cheer Advanced division, the team secured fourth place among eight competing teams, marking another important step in its continuing development as a competitive cheerleading program.
The Cheer Jags went head-to-head with established teams, including Southies Cheer Club, CAVS Sparks Cheer Nova, PNP Patrollers, Emilio Aguinaldo College Allstars, Noburu All Stars, Gabriellian Angels Pep Squad, and Quezon City Cheer Allstars. The competition challenged the team to demonstrate its technical ability, synchronization, strength, and execution across the different elements of the routine.
Despite incurring a technical deduction during the pyramid section, the Cheer Jags delivered a competitive performance, earning strong marks across several scoring categories. Their results reflected the team’s growing technical foundation and its capacity to compete alongside more established programs. While the deduction affected their final standing, the experience provided valuable insights into the precision, consistency, and attention to detail required at the advanced competitive level.
A Young Team with a Promising Future
What makes this achievement particularly meaningful is the team’s relatively young history. Now in only its third year, the UC Cheer Jags continues to build its identity, strengthen its technical capabilities, and establish its presence in the competitive cheerleading community.
Composed of 24 members, the team brought eight new members into the competition experience. For these first-time competitors, the National Grand Prix provided an opportunity to experience the demands of a major competition, perform under pressure, and learn firsthand from competing against experienced teams.
Beyond the rankings, the competition served as a valuable platform for growth. It allowed the athletes to assess their strengths, identify areas for improvement, and gain the confidence and discipline necessary to pursue higher competitive goals. For a developing team, these experiences are essential in building not only stronger routines but also a stronger team culture.
Fourth place is a commendable result, but the greater achievement lies in the progress made, the lessons gained, and the determination demonstrated throughout the competition. Every performance becomes an opportunity to refine skills, strengthen teamwork, and move closer to the team’s aspirations.
Moving Forward with Greater Determination
The Cheer Jags’ participation in the PCU National Grand Prix reflects the University of the Cordilleras’ continuing commitment to student development through sports, performance, and competitive opportunities. By allowing its athletes to compete on a national stage, UC provides meaningful experiences that develop discipline, resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
As the team moves forward, the lessons from this competition will serve as a foundation for future training and performances. With continued dedication, technical refinement, and collective effort, the Cheer Jags are building the experience and competitive maturity needed to pursue even greater achievements.
Three years in the making, one team growing stronger with every challenge. The UC Cheer Jags’ journey is far from over—this is another step toward a stronger, more confident, and more competitive future.
Intako, UC Cheer Jags! The journey continues.
Author: Dr. Peejay Natiola | CCP Director
