Monday, 26 January 2026

Mindoro Tamaraws Bolster Lineup With Homegrown Standouts

Mindoro Tamaraws Homegrown Players

Staying true to their identity as a team built by and for Mindoreños, the Mindoro Tamaraws of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) have bolstered their roster with three homegrown talents who bring size, versatility, and a winning pedigree: Christan Jake Agoncillo, Jon Ivan Cudiamat, and John Christopher “JC” Recto.


These recruits don’t just fill spots—they represent Mindoro’s growing footprint in Philippine basketball.



Standing at 6’3”, Christan Jake Agoncillo gives the Tamaraws a modern wing who can play both the shooting guard and small forward positions. A product of the University of Makati, Agoncillo sharpened his game with Strong Group–UMak (Ballout PH), where he was known for his length, perimeter shooting, and defensive flexibility.



Hailing from Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, Agoncillo brings maturity and composure, traits that fit well in the grind-heavy MPBL season. His ability to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions makes him a valuable chess piece in the Tamaraws’ rotation.



At 5’11”, Jon Ivan Cudiamat may not be the tallest guard on the floor, but he compensates with speed, confidence, and experience well beyond his 23 years. Born on October 27, 2001, and raised in Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro, Cudiamat has already logged extensive mileage across top developmental leagues. From the DLSZ Junior Archers in the UAAP Juniors, to stints with Mapúa University and Emilio Aguinaldo College in tournaments such as Filoil, Pinoyliga, AsiaBasket, and the Alliance Pilipinas League, Cudiamat has faced elite competition at every level.



Perhaps the most intriguing addition is John Christopher “JC” Recto, a 6’4” small forward from Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro, who continues to make waves with the Mapúa Cardinals in the NCAA.


Born November 23, 2001, Recto has emerged as a key contributor for Mapúa, especially in NCAA Season 101, where he posted a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double and followed it up with strong all-around performances, including 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 steals in a season opener.



A former MPBL campaigner with the Mindoro Disiplinados and the Abra Weavers, Recto brings length, rebounding, and defensive intensity. After being a standout rookie in NCAA Season 99, his continued development signals a player ready to impact games on both ends at the professional level.


With Agoncillo’s versatility, Cudiamat’s experience, and Recto’s rising star power, the Mindoro Tamaraws are reinforcing a clear philosophy: invest in local talent and let Mindoreños lead the charge.


As the MPBL season unfolds, these homegrown recruits won’t just be playing for wins—they’ll be carrying the pride of Oriental Mindoro on their backs, proving that the province can develop players ready for the national stage.