SOCORRO, SDN— Addressing student journalists, coaches, and education leaders and officials across SDO-Siargao, Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Alvin Prandy T. Canta of COMELEC Surigao del Norte delivered a focused keynote message during the opening of the 2026 Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC), hosted by Socorro Districts in close coordination with LGU-Socorro.

Introduced by Public Schools District Supervisor (PSDS) Dr. GJB C. Sanico Bam San, Atty. Canta began by reflecting on his own early days as a DSPC student journalist. Building on those personal roots, he grounded his speech on the statutory framework of campus media—Republic Act No. 7079, or the Campus Journalism Act of 1991—and its vital role in upholding press freedom, public accountability, and democratic checks and balances.

“We are the very source of power and strength,” Atty. Canta stated, reminding the delegates that citizens remain the true foundation of democracy, with a free press serving as the primary channel to express public thought.

Consequently, he urged young reporters to cultivate sharp critical thinking skills and maintain a courageous voice whenever governance strays from serving the public good.

Moving from constitutional principles to ethical reporting, Atty. Canta shifted focus to the responsibilities of modern student writers. Beyond competing for awards, he emphasized that representing one’s community with credibility and integrity makes every participant a winner, regardless of final contest rankings.

To conclude his address, Atty. Canta left the delegates with a direct charge regarding emerging digital tools: “The bottom line is responsibility,” Atty. Canta emphasized. “Don’t rely so much on AI—always use your heart and mind.” #