CALABARZON emerged as the top performing delegation at the 2026 National Schools Press Conference (NSPC), with the National Capital Region (NCR) placing second and Region II finishing third, organizers said.
The annual conference of campus journalists from across the country was held from April 13 to 17 in Ormoc City, Leyte, bringing together student writers, editors, and layout artists for various individual and group competitions.
CALABARZON’s win marked its return to the top after missing the overall title in the previous two years, according to competition data.
TOP OVERALL REGIONS:
- Region IV-A (CALABARZON)
- National Capital Region (NCR)
- Region II (Cagayan Valley)
- Region V (Bicol Region)
- Region III (Central Luzon)
ELEMENTARY DIVISION:
- National Capital Region (NCR)
- Region IV-A (CALABARZON)
- Region XI (Davao Region)
- Region III (Central Luzon)
- Region V (Bicol Region)
SECONDARY DIVISION:
- Region II (Cagayan Valley)
- Region XIII (Caraga Region)
- Region V (Bicol Region)
- Region IV-A (CALABARZON)
- Region III (Central Luzon)
The Department of Education (DepEd) said the NSPC highlights not only technical skills in campus journalism but also teamwork and storytelling among learners.
DepEd said the NSPC continues to serve as a platform for young journalists to develop their skills and contribute to more informed communities.
The conference carries the theme of responsible and ethical journalism. DepEd said student journalists play an important role in shaping future media practice in the country.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
GMA journalist Atom Araullo, who delivered this year’s keynote address, encouraged student journalists to uphold truth, integrity, and accountability in their work.
“Tuwing may sakuna, buhay ang nakataya sa reporting natin. At sa gitna ng gulo, kailangan may magsasabi ng totoo,” he said, recalling his experience covering Supertyphoon Yolanda in Leyte.
Araullo reminded student journalists that credibility is not measured by popularity.
“Hindi nasusukat ang pagiging mahusay na journalist sa dami ng awards o likes. Nasusukat ito sa pagiging mapanuri, sa paninindigan, at sa integridad,” he said.
He also acknowledged the challenges faced by journalists, including criticism and pressure.
“Kapag nagsasabi ka ng totoo, may magagalit… Ganyan ang trabaho ng mamamahayag: ikuwento ang mga katotohanang minsan, ayaw marinig ng iba. Ang problema, kapag hindi nagugustuhan ang balita, ang bilis sabihin: “Bias.” Kahit hindi pa binabasa, o kahit malinaw ang ebidensiya,” he added.
Highlighting the evolving media landscape, Araullo said technology cannot replace the core values of journalism.
“AI can generate content, but it cannot pursue the truth… hindi nito kayang manindigan, at hindi nito kayang umako ng pananagutan,” he said.
He urged young journalists to remain grounded in their purpose despite changing platforms and audience behavior.
“Influencers chase attention. Journalists chase the truth,” Araullo said.
As of press time, specific details regarding the host city or exact dates for the 2027 NSPC have not yet been announced officially by DepEd.
