Davao Region Achieves Top Honors at 2026 National Schools Press Conference
Davao Region has distinguished itself as a leading contender at the 2026 National Schools Press Conference (NSPC), clinching third place overall in the elementary division and delivering outstanding results in numerous individual and group categories. The event, which took place from April 13 to 17 in Ormoc City, Leyte, attracted over 3,400 delegates from 18 regions across the Philippines, all united under the theme "Mapanuri, Mapanindigan, at Mapanagutang Pamamahayag" (Critical, Principled, and Accountable Journalism).
DepEd Calls for Integrity in Journalism Amid AI Advancements
During the conference's opening on April 14, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued a powerful appeal to student journalists to uphold truth and accountability in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. Organized by DepEd in collaboration with the Ormoc City local government, the NSPC emphasized the critical role of young journalists in fighting misinformation and disinformation.
Undersecretary for Learning Systems Strand Carmela Oracion, representing Education Secretary Sonny Angara, highlighted the urgency of this mission. "Now more than ever, the role of the student-journalist is vital, for they are called to lead in fact-checking and to stand as defenders of verified, credible, and truthful information for the public," she stated. Oracion warned that while information flows faster today, the associated risks have also escalated, making principled journalism essential for shaping public understanding and maintaining integrity.
Keynote speaker and broadcast journalist Atom Araullo reinforced this message before a large audience at the Ormoc City Superdome. "Journalism is not a competition. It is a service. When there is disaster, elections, or corruption, someone must tell the truth," he declared. Araullo added, "AI can generate content, but it cannot pursue the truth," underscoring the irreplaceable human element in journalistic endeavors.
Davao Region's Impressive Medal Haul Across Divisions
In the elementary division, Davao Region showcased its talent with several standout performers. Russell Jake M. Madera from Magugpo Pilot Central Elementary School in Tagum City earned second place in feature writing (English), while Aaliyah Shayne Ampoloquio of Don Ricardo Briz CES secured second place in editorial writing (Filipino). Other notable achievements included:
- Rohanna Franzine L. Balo of Bobonao Elementary School in Davao Oriental and Prince Andrhey S. Operiano of Apolinar Franco Sr. Elementary School in Davao del Sur, both placing fourth in column writing.
- Fifth-place honors for Ken Gabriel S. Licayan of Magugpo Pilot Imelda Elementary School in feature writing (Filipino), Celeste Isabel A. Amila of Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc. in editorial writing (English), and Enrique S. Lunop of San Roque Central Elementary School in editorial cartooning (Filipino).
Group events further highlighted Davao's prowess, with a combined team from Magugpo Pilot Imelda ES and Magugpo Pilot CES in Tagum City taking third place for overall best radio production in elementary Filipino. Individual accolades included Hermioney Jhoneyca O. Garcia placing fourth as best news presenter and Sage Jedidiah G. King of Sta. Ana Central Elementary School in Davao City securing fifth place as best technical director in the English category.
The region's success extended to the secondary level, where it captured multiple top awards. Magnaga National High School in Davao de Oro won first place in collaborative desktop publishing (Filipino), and a joint team from Digos City National High School and Cor Jesu College, Inc. earned second place in overall best radio production along with first place for best script in Filipino radio broadcasting. Individual honors were awarded to Gennrick L. Pajaron as best technical director and Prinz Jollean Ivan D. Calumpong, who placed second as best news anchor.
In writing competitions, Davao produced national champions, including Wednz Junmark S. Malazarte of Nabunturan National Comprehensive High School, who topped newswriting (English), and Yohan Marco P. Caliao of Tagum City National High School, who secured first place in science and technology writing (English). Additional podium finishes were recorded in television broadcasting, with a team from Ateneo de Davao University Senior High School and Tagum City National High School placing third in overall best TV newscast (Filipino), alongside multiple individual recognitions in anchoring and presenting. Zanniel Zhaun S. Cabrera of Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc. also earned second place as best news reporter in the English category.
Emphasizing the Broader Mission of Campus Journalism
Education Secretary Sonny Angara reminded participants of the profound impact of their work. "In every story you write, in every truth you choose to defend, you are shaping not only yourselves but the future of our nation. Continue writing. Continue standing for the country," he urged. Angara added, "In a time of noise and information, what matters most is the ability to choose what is right and fight for the truth. May you carry the lessons of NSPC—that a journalist must have conviction, accountability, and compassion for the nation."
Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez, in her closing remarks, encouraged young journalists to value their experiences beyond the competitive arena. "You have to honor the journey. Keep writing, keep sharing your stories because life is a collection of stories. We are very inspired here in Ormoc," she said. DepEd reiterated that the NSPC serves not only as a competition but also as a vital platform to strengthen the role of campus journalism in nation-building, particularly in today's complex and rapidly evolving media landscape.
