De La Salle University rules the men’s division in the UAAP Season 87 taekwondo kyorugi (sparring) competition in this undated photo. Kyorugi will have a new format this year. (UAAP photo)
A fresh competitive landscape awaits in the UAAP Season 88 taekwondo tournament as action begins Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, highlighted by a major format shift in kyorugi and expanded categories in poomsae.
In a move aligned with global standards, kyorugi (sparring) will transition from a team-based setup to individual competitions—mirroring formats used in premier events such as the Asian and World Championships, as well as the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games, and the Olympics. The change is expected to elevate the level of competition, placing greater emphasis on individual skill, strategy, and endurance.
Despite the structural overhaul, the division breakdown remains intact. The men’s and women’s collegiate divisions will each feature seven weight classes, while the high school boys’ category will have five. The girls’ division, also with five weight classes, will make its debut as a demonstration event—marking another step forward for grassroots development in the sport.
Poomsae (forms) takes center stage at the start of the four-day tournament, alongside preliminary matches in the boys’ kyorugi division. Adding to the excitement is the introduction of freestyle poomsae as a demonstration event in the collegiate ranks, showcasing creativity and technical expression beyond traditional routines.
Overall supremacy will be determined through medal count across all divisions and disciplines, with the school earning the most gold medals crowned as champion.
Defending powers return with targets on their backs. University of Santo Tomas aims for a third consecutive collegiate poomsae title after a dominant three-gold, two-silver haul last season. In kyorugi, De La Salle University looks to extend its unbeaten run in the men’s division, while National University seeks to retain the women’s crown. National University Nazareth School, meanwhile, defends its title in the boys’ division.
Preliminary bouts in kyorugi are scheduled for April 22 to 23, with all eyes on the championship matches set for April 24—closing out what promises to be a dynamic and redefined edition of UAAP taekwondo.