DepED NCR 2025 RSPC concludes with awarding of winners, NSPC qualifiers
The expressions of emotion among participants from the 16 Divisions of the National Capital Region (NCR) stood out prominently during the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) Awarding and Closing Ceremonies on March 7, 2025, at St. Paul College Parañaque.
The announcement of the winners electrified the venue, generating a palpable sense of excitement that mirrored the heat outside. Division focal persons—proud of their achievements—confidently escorted their awardees onstage, creating a powerful atmosphere of celebration within the educational community. The event epitomized a remarkable sense of triumph and recognition for the dedication displayed by the student writers/broadcasters and school paper advisers (SPAs).
Winners in various categories received certificates, medals, plaques of recognition, and complimentary items, which the Host Division provided. Ten winners were honored as the Best School Papers, the top three in Individual Writing, and the top five in Group Contest categories, which included Collaborative Desktop Publishing, Collaborative Online Publishing, Radio Scriptwriting and Broadcasting, and Television Scriptwriting and Broadcasting. The top individual and group winners radiated evident joy and satisfaction, especially those who secured their place in the upcoming National Schools Press Conference.
NCR Regional Director and concurrent Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Operations at the Department of Education (DepEd) Central Office, Jocelyn DR Andaya, unequivocally credited the NCR technical working group, led by OIC-CLMD Chief Micah G. Pacheco with Regional EPS-English and Journalism Focal Person Arnold C. Gatus, and the host division under the leadership of Schools Division Superintendent Nerissa L. Losaria in partnership with the local government of Parañaque, represented by City Mayor Eric L. Olivarez.
Asec. Andaya urged campus journalists to actively engage in writing, conduct vital interviews, and pursue rigorous research that empowers citizens to fulfill their collective responsibilities. She underscored the critical importance of truthfulness in journalism.
Meanwhile, Dr. Cilette Liboro Co from the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the DepEd Central Office wholeheartedly applauded all campus journalists and SPAs for their exceptional hard work and unwavering dedication in their divisions. Other school division superintendents were likewise present to show support for their respective divisions. This year’s RSPC theme— “Empowering Students’ Voices: Navigating Truth and Integrity in Campus Journalism Amidst Digitalization and AI Innovation”—served as a clarion call for the future of journalism in the digital age.
-Reena G. Orquina, PSDS SDO Parañaque
