By Lane Afable, News Editor
CALABARZON has emerged as the overall champion in the recently-concluded 2026 National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) in Ormoc City.
CALABARZON has reclaimed the NSPC crown after showing a strong performance in both individual and group categories.
The NSPC brought together the country’s best campus journalists in a week-long celebration of excellence, discipline, and the power of storytelling.
In his message, Education Secretary Sonny Angara reminded participants of the deeper purpose of their craft.
“In every story you write, in every truth you choose to stand for, you shape not only yourselves but also the future of our nation. Continue writing. Continue standing up for the country.
“In a time of noise and information, what matters most is the ability to choose what is right and to fight for the truth. May you carry with you the lessons of the NSPC—that a journalist must have principles, accountability, and concern for the nation,” Angara said.
The National Capital Region (NCR) placed second, followed by Region II, Region V, and Region III.
Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez in closing message shared a reminder that goes beyond the competition.
“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, reinforcing the city’s role as host and partner in shaping young writers.
The Department of Education emphasized that the NSPC remains an important platform for developing responsible, critical, and ethical communicators in today’s increasingly complex media landscape.
With the theme “Critical, Principled, and Accountable Journalism,” the conference continues to shape a generation of students who understand the weight of truth and the responsibility that comes with telling it.
