SOCORRO, SURIGAO DEL NORTE — Schools Division Superintendent Manuel Caberte officially declared the Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) 2026 open, delivering a powerful keynote address that urged young campus journalists to champion truth and integrity in the age of artificial intelligence.

Expressing pride as a Filipino, Caberte praised the hosting quality of the event, calling it on par with the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC). He specifically commended the warm hospitality, keynote address, and vibrant cultural performances of the local Socorronhons, while extending his gratitude to Mayor Timcang for inspired local leadership.

Addressing the delegates, Caberte framed journalism as a vital training ground for truth-telling and reflected on the conference’s timely theme. He tackled the growing influence of artificial intelligence in media, acknowledging that while some view AI as a threat, it can never replace the human core of storytelling.

“AI cannot replace the lived experience, the empathy, and the moral compass that our young journalists give to every story they tell,” Caberte emphasized. “Our task is not to beat the machine, but to rise above it—to use these new tools wisely while holding fast to values that no algorithm can replicate: honesty, integrity, and love of country.”

Caberte highlighted the collective effort behind the conference, thanking school paper advisers, local government partners, DepEd personnel, media practitioners, private sector allies, parents, and judges for building the network of support that makes the event possible.

Addressing the student journalists directly, Caberte reminded them that their presence at the conference was no accident, but the result of their hard work and the belief of their mentors and families.

“Write with courage. Speak with clarity. Create with imagination,” Caberte urged. “Do not fear the age of artificial intelligence. Master it, question it, and use it as a tool—never as a substitute for your own voice, your own judgment, and your own heart.”

He concluded by reminding participants that beyond medals, the discipline, courage, and community gained through the conference are their greatest achievements, officially opening DSPC 2026 with a call for excellence, purpose, and truth-telling.#