Currently pursuing graduate studies, Siapno is ready to play on her fifth year in the UAAP and looks to improve on the lady jins’ fifth place finish last season.
“I have to lead by example. By being the team captain, I need to show everyone that you can balance studies and your sport. I need to be there for them [my teammates] on and off the court.”

Siapno recalls that Noleen Lagnada won bronze in the UAAP during the latter’s rookie year. This time around, Siapno is hoping that Lagnada, who is currently on her senior year, will be able to get her medal back in the upcoming UAAP taekwondo tourney.

Pauline Lopez, a member of the national team, is also the first Filipina gold medalist in the Asian Games. Despite being the only recruit of the women’s team, Siapno is optimistic that Lopez will be able to positively impact the lady jins’ final standing.

Elmer Rafael is a member of the Philippine Taekwondo Instructors and the Taewondo Blackbelt Brotherhood. He currently coaches both the blue and lady jins.
“This year for the women’s team napakarami naming ginawang meet and competitions,” Rafael said. “Malaki ang chance ng girls na makuha ang championship.”