Anchored on the provisions of Republic Act No 7079, which upholds campus press freedom and journalistic excellence, Xavier University Basic Education marked a historic milestone at the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2026 held from 12 to 16 March 2026, in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. For the first time in the institution’s history, The Squire Publication, under the advisership of Mr Steven Paul C Siawan, secured a Top 5 finish in the School Paper Competition (English, Secondary Category) among 70 school papers across Region X—officially earning a coveted spot in the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) 2026. This breakthrough achievement underscores the publication’s growing excellence and elevates Xavier University Basic Education onto the national stage of campus journalism.
Further strengthening the school’s performance, Czarinelle Mendoza, coached by Ms Gee Marriel L Gaputan, clinched First Place in Pagsulat ng Lathalain (Filipino, Elementary Category). Meanwhile, the Radio Broadcasting – English (Secondary Level) team composed of Zionne Legaspi, Rik Escorpiso, Neil Culta, Kristel Abad, Zyrus Osios, Nina Moro, and John Paul Endab, coached by Mr Steven Paul C Siawan, garnered Third Place overall, demonstrating excellence in collaborative broadcast journalism.
Xavier University Basic Education proudly represented the Division of Cagayan de Oro in other categories as well: News Writing – English (Secondary Level) represented by Denise Martir, coached by Ms Alexa Tan; Photojournalism – English (Secondary Level) represented by Matthew Joshua Maaño, coached by Ms Esther Bajuyo; and Editorial Writing – English (Elementary Level) represented by Celestine Dueñas, coached by Ms Therese Joy E Cagmat.
This year’s RSPC featured a more rigorous competition format, with three demanding rounds for individual events and two challenging rounds for group categories, testing not only skill but also endurance and adaptability. Rising above these challenges, Xavier University Basic Education demonstrated journalistic excellence, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of responsible campus journalism.