The UAAP sidelines are about to get even livelier as Cignal officially unveiled the fresh lineup of courtside reporters for Season 88. True to tradition, each of the league’s eight universities will once again be represented by its own student storyteller to add a personal touch to every game as they bring fans closer to the action both on and off the court. This year’s roster is a mix of returning voices and exciting new faces, each carrying their own background, campus spirit, and passion for sports journalism.

Leading the comeback crew are three familiar names. Representing the University of the Philippines, Cheska Ramos returns after a stellar debut last season. A former football player and volleyball athlete herself, Ramos brings not only her sharp reporting but also the perspective of someone who knows exactly what it’s like to grind it out as a student athlete.

From the other side of Katipunan, Vicsi Burgos of Ateneo de Manila University is also back for another run. Currently a third-year AB Communication student, Burgos is no stranger to the spotlight as she balances her life as a communicator and student leader through AIESEC while keeping Blue Eagle fans updated from courtside.

Completing the list of returnees is Althea Franco of the University of the East. Now in her second season covering the Red Warriors, the BA Broadcasting student doubles as a junior news writer for The Dawn, UE’s official student publication, which means storytelling is practically second nature to her.

But the new season isn’t just about familiar voices—it’s also about introducing the league’s fresh batch of reporters. Over at De La Salle University, Sophia Espiritu will juggle her duties as a courtside correspondent while working toward her BS and MS in Industrial Engineering, proof that Green Archers really know how to multitask under pressure.

From Adamson University, Frankie Buenevida joins the fold to bring her perspective as an active member of the Lady Falcons’ women’s basketball team. Having played the game herself, Buenevida definitely offers a unique lens with her both on the ground and on the mic.

The Far Eastern University community will be represented by Juliana Marasigan, a BA International Studies student whose background hints at a wide worldview—something that could translate into nuanced storytelling from the sidelines of the Tamaraw’s games.

National University’s flag will be carried by Zjeahne Luis, a campus journalist and broadcaster who’s no stranger to handling a mic. With NU’s growing sports programs, Luis will surely have plenty of stories to share from the Bulldog’s camp.

Meanwhile, host school University of Santo Tomas introduces Sidney Oliva, a volleyball player-turned-reporter, embodying the Tigresses’ never-say-die spirit as she trades her jersey for the courtside microphone.

Now in its fifth year as a UAAP broadcaster, Cignal continues to power the athletic action and power of young voices. The courtside reporter program has become a ground where student-journalists, athletes, and leaders can translate their campus energy into professional sports media. For viewers, it means that every timeout huddle, halftime update, and post-game reflection will be colored by the authentic perspective of someone who lives and breathes the culture of their university. 

Season 88 promises more than just the thrilling sports matchups—it’s also about watching these eight young reporters grow into their roles, find their voice, and leave their mark on the storied UAAP tradition. Whether they’re seasoned returnees or first-timers, one thing’s for sure: the UAAP sidelines are in good hands.

PHOTOS: OneSports, One Volleyball ph, Tiebreaker Times (via Facebook)