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𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵: 𝗙𝗕𝗖 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘀’ 𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁�

The FBC Channel marked a historic milestone as the only student publication from Southern Negros and the sole contender from Kabankalan City to participate in the region-wide 49th College Press Conference and Awards (COPRE 2025), held at the Iloilo Grand Hotel, Iloilo City, on November 27, 2025—an achievement that underscored its commitment to resilient campus journalism.

Delivering the keynote message, Romeo Subaldo, Senior Reporter of Digicast Negros and Correspondent of ABS-CBN, set the tone of the conference with an inspiring address that echoed the transformative power of storytelling. “Writing is a force that builds resilience and community,” he emphasized, challenging student journalists to anchor their craft in truth and public service.

Subaldo shared the behind-the-scenes journey of his viral documentary, “Ang Halit sang Bagyong Tino sa Negros — Delubyo,” recounting how the project began simply as “excessive videos” captured during the typhoon’s aftermath. He illustrated how these fragments of reality shaped a narrative that not only documented loss but also moved millions online to act and help affected communities.

“We write stories that matter,” Subaldo reminded the participants, describing how his experiences as a budding journalist pushed him to tell the stories of the unheard. His message urged the delegates to pursue journalism that reveals truth, uplifts communities, and restores dignity in times of crisis.

He ended with a challenge to the student press to embrace the craft wholeheartedly and “continue to be the voice of the voiceless.”

During her welcome message, EnP. Cheryl B. Amor, MDMG, Regional Head of PIA Western Visayas, likewise expressed concern for the typhoon-stricken areas and offered prayers for their recovery.

The FBC Channel joined multiple categories: News Writing (English & Filipino), Feature Writing (English), Sports Writing (English & Filipino), Editorial Writing (English), Editorial Cartooning (English), Best Literary Folio, and Best Tabloid. Despite not securing a win this year, the team delivered what they described as a resilient finish, strengthened by the experience of competing with some of the region’s most established student publications.

Sports Editor Virgil Vincent Rosaldo reflected on his performance with renewed confidence, saying he was “satisfied gid sa’kon nasulat, unlike last year.” Meanwhile, Editor-in-Chief John Lowayne Boga highlighted the significance of the opportunity: “To compete alongside prestigious student publications is already something I am proud of. It is the collaboration and learning that matter—using our platforms to channel truths that shape lives. For God, for FBC!”

The delegation also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the administrators, faculty, and the entire FBC community, noting that their support made the journey to COPRE possible. They shared that although they did not bring home awards, they returned with a deeper resolve, not just to bring home the bacon but to continue uplifting truths that impact the lives of every FBCian and the wider community.

With a strengthened purpose, the FBC Channel affirmed its commitment to keep writing stories that matter—resiliently, faithfully to God, and for the greater good.

via John Lowayne G. Boga
photos by Adrian Cassandra Jr.

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