With this school year’s whooping number of 3,651 registered participants, the Davao City Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) 2025 formally kicked off at Crossing Bayabas National High School, December 1, 2025.
Campus journalists and school paper advisers from both public and private elementary and secondary schools, together with the vital persons in DepEd Davao City, graced the opening ceremony filled with inspiration and challenge.
“Your words have the power to inspire, to educate, and to bring about changes. You are the voice of the voices. You are the champions of truth. You are the leaders of tomorrow,” ASDS Josie T. Bolofer said in her welcome message.
Dr. Rene P. Sultan, Education Program Supervisor in Filipino, presented the rationale of the week-long event as well as the evaluators in the journalism events.
Meanwhile, the Curriculum Implementation Division Chief Dr. Alma C. Cifra presented the summary report of the number of participants in this year’s DSPC. Districts and clusters with the highest number of participants were also presented and commended.
Dr. May Ann M. Jumuad, the Education Program Supervisor in English, gave a heartfelt challenge to all participants, highlighting the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) roving trophy, which Davao City coveted in the RSPC 2025.
“This roving trophy doesn’t just gleam with metal and light. It gleams with glory of your sacrifices. This glory isn’t defended by one person. It’s defended by a family. Together, we will show the Davao Region that Davao City Division’s spirit isn’t just strong – it’s unbreakable. We came to defend our home – the Home of the Champions!” Dr. Jumuad challenged.
Subsequently, Schools Division Superintendent Reynante A. Solitario underscored that this year’s DSPC is a gathering of more than 3000 young storytellers, truth seekers, and future nation builders from both public and private schools, and Davao City is the reigning champion of the RSPC and is the proud holder of the first ever roving trophy.
“Journalism in Davao City is not only thriving, but it is also alive. We are proud holders of the first ever roving trophy. Now entrusted to us safe, secured, and shining with the weight of your hard work,” SDS Solitario said.
He also inspired campus journalists to continue making Davao City proud, continue lifting Region XI, and continue upholding the truth.
“Write not just to win, but to make people think. Write not just to impress but to influence. Write not just for yourself but also for your country. In your hands is the power to amplify voices, to question injustices, to push for transparency, to demand accountability, to tell the stories that matter,” he said.
After which, SDS Solitario, together with ASDS Sagot and ASDS Bolofer, formally declared the opening of the DSPC, unveiling this school year’s DSPC branding.
To end the opening program, ASDS Rebecca C. Sagot shared, “As we start this press conference, let us reaffirm our vote of commitment to building schools filled with confident writers, discerning readers, and responsible communicators.”
Following the success of the opening program, this school year’s DSPC begins yet another promising journey for regional and national recognition.
By: Rudylen A. dela Torre
Photos: Rovic Akiatan
