Cebuana Lhuillier is strengthening its long-standing support for Philippine sports with the entry of the Cebuana Lhuillier Gems into the Pickle Yard Conference League (PYCL), the country’s first professional pickleball league.
The move represents another significant step for the financial services company, which has consistently backed the growth of Filipino athletes across a variety of sports.
At the helm of the Cebuana Lhuillier Gems is company president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, whose advocacy for sports development has helped open doors for many Filipino athletes on the international stage.
“For many years, Cebuana Lhuillier has believed in the power of sports to inspire communities and develop Filipino talent,” said Lhuillier in a statement. “The launch of the Pickle Yard Conference League is an exciting milestone for pickleball in the Philippines, and we are proud to be part of this historic moment through the Cebuana Lhuillier Gems. Our team reflects our commitment to supporting athletes and helping elevate the sport to new heights.”
Joining him in the lineup is Philippine tennis icon Johnny Arcilla, bringing veteran leadership and competitive experience to the team as it prepares for the league’s inaugural campaign.
Rounding out the roster are Hakim Boloto, Arianne Gajasan, Sofia Nipa, Diana Hughes, Jessy Ysyldjre Lira, and Cyrill Dinle Robeniol, forming a balanced squad ready to make its mark in the new professional competition. Supporting the team behind the scenes is team manager Grace Woo, who is tasked with overseeing preparations and coordination throughout the season.
According to Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier has always believed in the power of sports to inspire communities and nurture Filipino talent. He added that the launch of the PYCL is a major moment for pickleball in the Philippines, and the company is proud to be part of that milestone through the Gems.
Pickleball has steadily gained popularity across the country, with more courts, clubs, and grassroots tournaments emerging in recent years. Its fast-paced rallies and accessibility have attracted players of all ages, helping the sport build a loyal following among both recreational athletes and experienced racket sport competitors.
The Gems will begin their campaign in March with two early matchups. They face the Born2Win Forex Bulls on 7 March at 4:30 p.m., before taking on the Philex Vanguards on 8 March at 3:00 p.m. These opening games will give the team an early opportunity to find its rhythm and showcase its competitiveness in a league featuring many of the nation’s rising pickleball talents.
