The Achiever

𝗡𝗢𝗪 𝗕𝗢𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: 𝗙𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗛 𝗟𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗘𝗦! 🚀

The 5 new photojournalists who will board The Achiever are finally here!

Armed with their cameras and fresh skills, they’re ready to capture moments, tell stories through images, and shine a new light on campus life. 🌟

Emerging from Earth’s atmosphere...is a crucible with a crew of 19 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 going on board The Achiever! 🧑‍🚀🚀

Writing articles with paragraphs engineered for perfect aerodynamics to break through the exosphere, this crew of young scribes are ready maneuver the endless expanse of the campus press! ☄️

Journalism’s call for objectivity and responsibility has never been more the louder— and as we reach for the stars and beyond, draw up stories that pulse through the cosmos. Break longstanding narratives, signal change through the cosmos, and be a beacon of light in the darkness!

𝗦𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀, 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳𝗳! 🚀

NOTE: Photojournalism entries are still being processed, please wait for further notice.

𝗜𝗧’𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗬𝗢𝗨’𝗩𝗘 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗕𝗘𝗘𝗡 𝗪𝗔𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗢𝗥! 🤭🚀

Are you your class’ go-to student for poster making contests 🫟 or the resident photographer with the DSLR? 📸

Do you have a knack for cooking up fire essays🔥 or poems that can make even Rizal giggle and kick his feet? ✍️

If any of these check your boxes, then you, could be the one we’re looking for!

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗔𝗖𝗛𝗜𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥, the Official English School Publication of Libertad NHS, is setting up the launch pad for aspiring campus journalists!

𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗚𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗦𝗖𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚:
* Copyreading and Headline Writing
* News Writing
* Editorial Writing
* Column Writing
* Feature Writing
* Sci-Tech Writing
* Sports Writing
* Cartooning
* Photojournalism

📍 𝗦𝗣𝗝 𝗕𝗨𝗜𝗟𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗮𝘁 3:20𝗣𝗠 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗧𝗛𝗨𝗥𝗦𝗗𝗔𝗬 (August 14, 2025)

Got no experience? Got no clue what campus journalism is even about? No worries!

If you got what it takes to be a meaningful voice for those without it, we got a place for you here!

Note— Bring your own pen and paper, camera, or device; for layout artists and broadcasters, schedules for screening are to be followed.

Access the registration link here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgDru82lUWE4XyPJMNEYuBBx-v3VFIjHv0E4ltHegQBZhS3A/viewform?usp=header

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙖𝙩 𝘿𝙎𝙋𝘾 ‘25

School publication of Libertad National High School, The Achiever, made an impressive mark at the recently concluded Divison School Press Conference (DSPC) held in Polomolok, Soutch Cotabato, securing multiple awards and qualifying 20 student-journalists for the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC).

School Paper Awards

The Achiever demonstrated excellence in campus journalism, earning top honors in various categories:
• Best Sci-Tech Page – 1st Place
• Best News Page – 2nd Place
• Best Editorial Page – 2nd Place
• Best Feature Page – 2nd Place
• Best Sports Page – 2nd Place
• Best Layout Page – 4th Place

With these achievements, The Achiever ranked 2nd overall among the top five school papers advancing to the RSPC.

Individual Awards

Several student-journalists from The Achiever demonstrated outstanding writing and visual skills in various categories:

• Sci-Tech Writing: Pearl Anne Catap – 3rd Place
• Column Writing: Daniella Chingay – 2nd Place
• Editorial Cartooning: Ameedelah Castillo – 2nd Place; Arvin Dale Aaron – 10th Place
• Photojournalism: Airah Daypuyart – 3rd Place
• News Writing: Samantha Gry Dongon – 8th Place
• Sports Writing: Clark Justine Aaron – 4th Place; Keizer Kitz Beter – 9th Place
• Editorial Writing: Gabrielle Cambronero – 9th Place

Group Awards

The Achiever also dominated in group competitions, excelling in online, collaborative, and broadcast journalism:
• Online Publishing – 1st Place
• Robee Kert Arroyo
• Jannah Sofia Superio
• Ashleigh Blaise Sustiguer
• Jamie Kate Labadia
• Jer-Ann Calibo

• TV Broadcasting – 1st Place
• Jhon Kler Pagunsan
• Samuel Rejaba
• Lianz Gaan
• Cyrene Dongon
• Keshel Jay M. Genine
• Estelle Vera Ladot
• Tricia Jowel J. Batobalani

SPJ Radio Broadcasting – 2nd Place Overall
• Brigette Berdejo – 3rd Place Best in Scriptwriting
• Gian Gagula – 1st Place Best News Presenter
• Ashley Siyambio, Gian Gagula, Cedric Martin – 3rd Place Best in Infomercial
• Ervy Mindo – 3rd Place Best in Technical

• Radio Broadcasting (Regular) – 3rd Place Overall
• Rea Dianne Navasca – 5th Place Best Anchor
• Chelzy Miles Todoc – 3rd Place Best News Presenter
• Michael Angelo Aquino – 3rd Place Best Technical
• Zyle Wilfred Mauricio – 4th Place Best Infomercial
• Julia Katheryn Silvestre – 2nd Place Best Scriptwriting

• Collaborative Publishing – 4th Place
• Chester Khyle Toledo
• Angel Grace Dimayuga
• Rhyza Blance Buscato
• Krisjan Calixton
• Maxine Kate Orong
• Adrian Jade Himalla

With its remarkable performance, The Achiever with 17-student journalists are now set to compete at the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC), where they will once again showcase their journalistic talent against top school publications from across the region.

Success at DSPC reflects the dedication, skill, and teamwork of the journalists, as they prepare for the next level of competition, their passion for truth and storytelling continues to inspire young journalists to strive for excellence.

The Achiever extends its heartfelt gratitude to the school administrators—Principal Sir Stephen Salazar , Assistant Principal Magdalena Legarde, and Academic Coordinator Sir Chester Pineda, for their unwavering support. Special thanks also to the teachers and parents whose encouragement and guidance have played a crucial role in the success of the young journalists.

✍️: ꜱᴀᴍᴀɴᴛʜᴀ ɢʀʏ ᴅᴏɴɢᴏɴ

LiNHS Young Scientists Win Division Festival of Talents, Advance to Regional Competition

STO. NIÑO, South Cotabato – Libertad National High School's (LiNHS) young scientists, Chester Khyle Toledo, Cedric James Samson, and Jude Lance Pueblo, clinched the top prize at the Division Festival of Talents. Their victory in the STEMAzing AGHAMAzing category was supervised by their coach, Chester Ian Pineda. As a result of this triumph, the team advanced to the Regional Festival of Talents, which will be held in M'lang, Cotabato Province.

Among 14 schools in the Division of South Cotabato, LiNHS emerged as the champion, with Tupi National High School securing 2nd place and Poblacion Polomolok National High School finishing in 3rd place. A total of 42 student researchers participated in the competition.

The team’s proposal, ARAS: Automatic Raceway Aquaculture System, earned them not only the championship title but also a special award for Best in Paper. Their outstanding performance in the competition, achieved within just three hours of preparation, demonstrates their skill and innovation in the field.

LOOK | # # | No. 1

The Achiever has proudly launched its 36th Volume, Issue No. 1! Explore insightful articles and immerse yourself in the latest features, including a captivating visual of a rocket soaring into the sky. Click the link to read more and stay updated with the latest developments and stories that matter.

https://online.fliphtml5.com/kleuw/xndw/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2KnIAxRF1Eqz36qyTH4mQStFEXhmgiOVXmTVNPVdk6WOMkilCpjHBHgPc_aem_oZVPJpnATodXnV2-FAtexA =1

𝙎𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙤𝙛𝙛!

Soar to new heights with passion and purpose! Our junior campus journalists are ready to take the lead, bringing you news that informs, views that challenge, and stories that inspire. Join the call for responsible journalism—rooted in truth, driven by dedication, and guided by compassion. Whether it's writing hard-hitting news, sharing inspiring features, or delivering sports highlights with flair, there's a place for you in our team.

If you're eager to be part of this mission, connect with Chester Khyle Toledo, our Editor-in-Chief, Pearl Anne Catap, our Associate Editor, or Angel Grace Dimayuga, our Managing Editor. Together, let's shape the future of campus journalism!

𝙳𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚜 𝚘𝚞𝚝—𝚓𝚘𝚒𝚗 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚎, 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚋𝚒𝚐, 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚌𝚑𝚒𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚜 𝚐𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚜!

𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆
— 𝘊𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘒𝘩𝘺𝘭𝘦 𝘏. 𝘛𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘰

Crunchy… Munchy… Healthy... A play of his name and science biodiversity, Christian Castañeda, 42 years old from Koronadal City, started his journey of bridging the gap between farm and table, offering a unique blend of education, sustainable practices, and immersive experiences. He owns the OrganiKian, an organic urban farm in Koronadal City at South Cotabato. The Philippines has become an emergent organic agriculture market, a testimony to this is Kristian’s story of waves from Marine Transportation Officer to a fireman and now as an agripreneur.

Imagine planting without soil… Vertical farming that incorporates hydroponics to increase the production of plants by 3 to 10 times, with 90% more efficient use of water. Sprinklers and drip system irrigation techniques, optimizes water usage through nutrient reservoirs because the same water can be reused over and over, and there is no need to worry about having a plot of land, weeds, pathogens living in dirt, or treating the crops with pesticides. “We have to plant the best vegetable,” Christian’s 400 square meters farm has turned into a 1,500 square meter traction for learners today as the Department of Science and Technology and its Science Journo Ako advocacy let campus journalists from around South Cotabato witness botanical innovations.

𝙍𝙤𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙍𝙤𝙤𝙩𝙨

Even eagles never wasted this opportunity, as last April 15, 2024, a juvenile Philippine Serpent Eagle (Spilornis holospilus) landed on the perimeters of the farm, and it was found by Ronnel Marcelino and James Salandron. “Upon discovery, the eagle appeared to be tired and panting and so we decided to feed it with meat to help regain its strength”, Mr. Marcelino stated. However, ensuring the long-term viability of this sector requires a steadfast commitment to sustainable development, fueled by continuous innovation.

Active engagement in social media furthered the news of the OrganiKian, listings in Facebook, Restaurant Guru, Food Panda, Sluurpy, and YouTube advertised it even more. By leveraging digital platforms and local partnerships, organic agritourism businesses effectively market their offerings and attract visitors from near and far places. Their active response in mitigating challenges concerning health deepens their connection in the community. The farm-to-garden trend started in January 2020 and in March the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak started, ImmunoBooster Juices, a mix of vegetable shakes from the yard became a way out to a healthy lifestyle.

𝘽𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨
OrganiKian also hosts educational programs for students to learn about agriculture and healthy eating. Philippine Science High School - SOCCSKSARGEN Region Campus students visited the farm and generated an innovation in which every hour the sprinkler is turned on for a minute and then the fan will continuously cool the humidity of the greenhouse. It has developed a diversified income stream through farm sales, agritourism activities, and accommodation services.

Ed Justine B. De Adio, an employee at OrganiKian, highlighted the variety of unique plants grown in the farm, including kale, lettuce, and basil. He also mentioned that the healthy lifestyle promoted by OrganiKian inspires him to work in the field of transforming farm produce into delicious treats.

OrganiKian partnered with different agencies to enrich his knowledge of organic farming. Organikian Agriventures Corp in partnership with DSWD Region 12, Koronadal City, South Cotabato has aligned its missions to facilitate opportunities for the development and management of resource-based, culturally sensitive, market and economically viable micro-enterprises. Also, they conducted intensive training on hydroponics and entrepreneurial mindset on how to sustain this simple yet very effective project. Beneficiary, Brgy. Griño Farmers SLP Association received all the necessary inputs and materials to produce hydroponically grown lettuce for the next 5 croppings and so on.

𝘼𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙁𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚

Organic agritourism offers a path to creating a thriving business that benefits the environment, educates the community, and fosters a deeper appreciation for food and nature. By embracing sustainable practices and creating a welcoming environment, you can cultivate a successful organic agritourism venture that flourishes for generations to come. This unique model allows you to be not only a steward of the land but also a bridge between farm and table, fostering a deeper connection to our food system and the natural world. Through continuous innovation, collaboration, and dedication, organic agritourism businesses can lead the way towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

— Libertad National High School's official entry in the 'Science Journo Ako' workshop, held in Koronadal City on April 29-30.

DOST XII - Department of Science and Technology - Region XII
OrganiKian Urban Farm

Early Corruption

Philippines is facing a serious issue: a culture of cheating that contributes to a worsening mental health crisis among young people. Data from the University of the Philippines Population Institute reveals that nearly 20% of Filipino youth have considered su***de. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency of addressing the root cause - a societal tolerance for cheating.

Cheating, whether in academics or personal relationships, fosters a sense of self-serving dishonesty. This mirrors the tactics of corrupt officials who prioritize personal gain over the well-being of the people they serve. Studies by Michael D. Giallourakis et al. (2013) suggest a connection between academic dishonesty and unethical behavior in professional settings. This reinforces the idea that a culture of cheating normalizes dishonesty, leading to a wider societal problem of corruption.

The paradox is that Filipinos often condemn corruption in government while excusing similar behavior in celebrities. For example, the KathNiel break-up highlighted a disturbing trend of normalizing infidelity based on physical attractiveness. This creates a double standard that erodes ethical values.

Despite initiatives like character development programs in schools, the full impact is hampered by a lack of accountability among school leaders. Research from the Department of Education (2018) suggests that only 45% of school heads feel responsible for addressing issues like student mental health. This highlights the need for a systemic approach that tackles the problem at its root – the environment and upbringing of young people.

The key to breaking this cycle lies in collaborative action. Parents play a crucial role in instilling honesty and ethical values in their children. Blaming specific generations is unproductive; instead, all stakeholders – parents, educators, and government officials – need to work together. Addressing these underlying issues will ultimately improve both mental health and ethical behavior within society. The domino effect of this fiasco has egregious effect on human morality and it constitutes to the mantra “blame the boomers and not generations X-Y-Z.”

₅, ₄, ₃, ₂, ₁
ʟᴏᴏᴋ ᴏᴠᴇʀ!
ᴛʜɪꜱ ʀᴏᴄᴋᴇᴛ ꜱʜɪᴘ ɪꜱ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴛᴀᴋᴇ ᴏꜰꜰ.