Among the campus journalists and publications representing the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Saint Louis University’s (SLU) official university-wide student publication, White & Blue, bagged multiple awards in the individual and group categories during the 20th Luzonwide Higher Education Press Conference (LHEPC) held at Batis Aramin Resort and Hotel, Lucban, Quezon from 02-04 April 2025.
Centered on the theme, “PRESS PLAY: Campus Journalists as Game Changers in Digital Revolution,” the press conference gathered over 1,000 delegates from around 150 student publications from CAR, and Regions I (Ilocos), II (Cagayan Valley), III (Central Luzon), IV-A (Calabarzon), IV-B (Mimaropa), V (Bicol), and VII (Central Visayas).
Furthermore, the event aimed to develop fellowship among campus journalists, enrich participants’ journalistic qualities through a series of lectures and competitions, and enhance the practice of campus journalism in higher education institutions in general.
Following the conclusion of the competition proper, Rohan Yzrel Ruiz, a member of White & Blue’s broadcasting team, was crowned as this year’s Mr. LHEPC and secured special awards, including Best in Introductory Video and Best in Journalism Attire. Karishma Gupta from Region I was hailed as this year’s Ms. LHEPC.
White & Blue garnered the following awards for the 20th LHEPC:
After earning second place in the Poetry Writing (English) category, Gabrielle Santiago shared his reaction upon the announcement of winners. “I felt disbelief at first. I came into the hall already accepting that I might never go up the stage. Then, they called my name, and all that doubt melted away. I was elated, but even when I was walking down the aisle I felt like everything came to a pause. I couldn’t believe it happened,” Santiago stated.
Further, Kaye Leah Sitchon, White & Blue’s adviser, highlighted that the results of the competition reflect how the publication has stayed true to solid, responsible journalism, and that coming back to joining the competition feels just right for them to keep growing as Louisian storytellers.
Sitchon also shared that since the regionals, difficulties were faced by the publication, but White & Blue responded with focus and choices grounded in more than just the drive to win.
“Honestly, since RHEPC, many situations have unfolded differently than expected. Decisions often had to be made quickly, requiring adaptability. Despite this, the team at W&B consistently turned challenges into opportunities. Their strong leadership and supportive community stood out, demonstrating a genuine commitment to looking out for one another. Decisions made went beyond the goal to win,” Sitchon said.
Moreover, Sitchon noted that having one’s heart in the right place goes a long way, accountability, and a strong bond within the team as her key takeaways throughout the journey with the publication.
White & Blue joined the LHEPC and the Regional Higher Education Press Conference (RHEPC) last February 2025 after a six-year hiatus. (Article by Penelope Dela Cruz and Keziah Mae Tingga-an | Photos by Rouize Pancho)
