Ilocos Region’s Brightest Young Journalists Gather in Dagupan for the Regional Schools Press Conference

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The vibrant city of Dagupan has once again become a hub for journalistic excellence as campus journalists from different school divisions across the Ilocos Region convene for the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2025. This prestigious event, running from February 11 to 14, is a significant gathering that fosters the talents of the region’s best and brightest young journalists, preparing them for the evolving landscape of media and communication.

A Platform for Journalistic Excellence

The RSPC serves as a battleground for aspiring journalists to showcase their prowess in news writing, feature writing, editorial cartooning, photojournalism, broadcasting, and more. More than just a competition, it is a celebration of journalistic integrity, creativity, and excellence, reinforcing the power of the press in shaping informed communities.

From the moment the event was officially opened, excitement filled the air as student journalists, mentors, and officials gathered for the much-anticipated launch. Hosted by the Department of Education (DepEd) Ilocos Region, the conference aims to enhance the skills of young reporters, instilling in them the values of responsible and ethical journalism.

Prepping for Success: Division-Level Cliniquing

Prior to the regional event, the Dagupan City Schools Division organized a special cliniquing session for students who qualified for the RSPC. This preparatory training was designed to hone their skills further, equipping them with the necessary techniques to excel in their respective categories. The session also provided valuable mentorship from experienced journalists and educators, ensuring that the participants were at their best before stepping onto the bigger stage.

The Excitement Builds: Highlights from RSPC 2025

This year’s conference is packed with activities that go beyond writing competitions. Student journalists are actively engaging in:

✅ Workshops and Seminars – Industry experts and veteran journalists share insights on modern media trends, ethical reporting, and fact-checking techniques.

✅ On-the-Spot Contests – Participants put their journalistic skills to the test in real-time writing, editing, and photography challenges.

✅ Broadcast Journalism Showdowns – Young broadcasters experience the thrill of delivering news live, simulating the pressure and excitement of actual newsrooms.

✅ Editorial Cartooning and Photojournalism – Aspiring visual storytellers bring current issues to life through compelling illustrations and images.

According to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 1, the enthusiasm among Ilocos Region’s top young journalists is at an all-time high as they showcase their storytelling, investigative, and technical skills in the hopes of making it to the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC).

Beyond Competition: Shaping the Future of Journalism

While the RSPC is a prestigious contest, its true essence lies in its role as a training ground for future media professionals. The conference provides an avenue for student journalists to network, learn from industry leaders, and gain real-world experience that goes beyond the classroom.

As the event progresses, participants are not only competing for top honors but also developing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and a passion for truth and transparency—values that will serve them well in their future careers.

A Celebration of Press Freedom and Young Voices

The Regional Schools Press Conference 2025 in Dagupan City stands as a testament to the Ilocos Region’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of journalists. By equipping young storytellers with the right skills and knowledge, the event strengthens the foundation of responsible journalism in the country.

With their pens, cameras, and microphones, these student journalists are not just reporting the news—they are shaping the future of Philippine media, one story at a time.

Swift Justice for a Poster, But Where’s the Urgency for Corruption?

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) recently flagged a promotional poster by Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas for improper use of the Philippine flag. According to the NHCP, the placement of the flag as a background image violated Republic Act No. 8491, which outlines the correct usage of national symbols. In response, the page administrators quickly took down the post from their social media accounts.

This swift action by NHCP raised eyebrows, with many Filipinos questioning why government agencies can act decisively on minor infractions but seem to falter when it comes to widespread corruption. The contrast is glaring—efficiency in handling a flag misuse but sluggish or even non-existent action against officials accused of looting public funds.

A Government Quick to Spot Small Infractions, Slow on Big Crimes

While the NHCP promptly addressed a relatively minor issue, major corruption scandals involving high-ranking officials continue to pile up with little to no resolution. Recently, former President Rodrigo Duterte and his former aide were accused of misusing government funds through fraudulent dealings. Allegations against them suggest large-scale corruption, yet legal proceedings have been slow-moving.

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte is facing criminal charges, including inciting to sedition and grave threats, after allegedly making assassination threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other officials. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has recommended filing these charges, marking a rare instance where a high-profile politician faces legal accountability. However, it remains uncertain how swiftly—or effectively—justice will be served.

The Persistent Corruption Problem in the Philippines

The Philippines consistently ranks low in corruption perception indexes across the Asia-Pacific region. Reports from international watchdogs indicate that corruption remains deeply entrenched, with public funds continuously siphoned through fraudulent projects, bribery, and misuse of power. Efforts to combat corruption—such as digitalization in government transactions and increased citizen oversight—are in place but have yet to show significant results.

Transparency remains a challenge, and investigations into major corruption cases often end in political maneuvering rather than real accountability. When it comes to government graft, arrests and convictions are rare, and the public has become increasingly disillusioned with the justice system.

The Hypocrisy of Selective Governance

The swift response of the NHCP to a minor flag violation only amplifies the frustration of Filipinos who see their leaders escape punishment for far more serious offenses. If agencies can act immediately on social media posts, why do corruption cases involving billions of pesos drag on for years without resolution? The urgency applied to symbolic infractions should also be used to pursue economic and political crimes that have far greater consequences for the nation.

If the government wants to restore public trust, it must show the same level of urgency in addressing corruption as it does in correcting minor mistakes. Justice must not be selective. The Filipino people deserve a leadership that holds criminals accountable, whether they are small-time offenders or high-ranking politicians.

The question remains: When will we see the same efficiency used in flag-related controversies applied to the fight against corruption? Until then, the crocodiles in government will continue to feast, while justice remains a distant dream for many.

Manila to Sagada in Just 3 Hours? Game-Changing Airport and Road Projects Set to Transform Travel by 2026!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Exciting developments are underway that promise to revolutionize travel from Manila to Sagada, potentially reducing the journey to just three hours by 2026. This significant improvement is attributed to two major infrastructure projects: the construction of Candon Airport in Ilocos Sur and the development of the Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road.

Candon Airport: A New Gateway to the North

The Candon Airport project has been making significant strides since its groundbreaking on November 10, 2023. Located on a 50-hectare site near the bypass road in Barangay Calaoan, the airport aims to boost the local economy and serve as a catalyst for regional development. The government allocated ₱270 million from the General Appropriations Act of 2022 for site development and initial construction, including the runway. 

As of early 2025, the site development is progressing well, with the first building construction expected to commence soon. The airport is anticipated to be operational by 2026, providing a new and efficient entry point to Northern Luzon. 

Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road: Bridging Provinces

Parallel to the airport development, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is advancing the ₱738-million Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road project. This initiative aims to connect Ilocos Sur to Mountain Province, facilitating smoother travel to Sagada. As of April 2024, 43% of the Ilocos Sur segment was completed, with full completion targeted by 2026. 

The project encompasses the construction of a 2-lane road spanning 11.96 kilometers from Barangay Patungcaleo to Barangay Patiacan in Quirino, Ilocos Sur. It includes concrete pavement, drainage systems, slope protection, and road safety features. Annual funding has been secured since 2020, ensuring steady progress toward the projected completion date.

A Transformative Impact on Travel

Currently, traveling from Manila to Sagada typically takes 11 to 12 hours by road. With the completion of Candon Airport and the Cervantes-Besao-Sagada Road, this travel time could be drastically reduced to approximately three hours. The envisioned route involves a flight from Manila to Candon City, followed by a scenic drive through the newly constructed road directly to Sagada.

This transformation is expected to make Sagada more accessible to tourists and locals alike, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange in the region. The enhanced accessibility will not only benefit tourism but also provide local communities with improved access to markets, healthcare, and education.

Looking Ahead

As these projects progress, stakeholders remain optimistic about meeting the 2026 operational targets. The combined efforts in aviation and road infrastructure development underscore the government's commitment to regional development and improved connectivity.

Travelers and residents can look forward to a future where the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Sagada are just a short journey away, heralding a new era of convenience and opportunity in Northern Luzon.