The Hillside Echo – Senior (THES) secured multiple awards at the 12th SanAg Campus Press Awards, hosted by USA Publications, March 22.

With the theme “Amplifying Campus Voices: Empowering Journalistic Narratives,” the event brought together campus publications from across the region to compete in various categories.

Among THES’ major victories was their championship title in the 6th Regional Journalism Quiz Bee, where they outperformed 21 other regional publications with a total score of 70 points.

“Despite having little time to prepare due to exam week, we managed to take an early lead and sustain our momentum throughout the competition. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience, and we’re incredibly proud of this achievement,” the team shared.

The winning team is composed of editors Fiona Faye Fantilaga, Angel Asabasan, and junior staff member Gian Carlo Andama.

Beyond the quiz bee, THES also excelled in documentary filmmaking.

Led by Videographer Head Antonniette Almorfe and Associate Editor for Online Geomarie Dave Centillo, the team secured 3rd place in the SanAg Documentary #KuwentoNiGusting with their entry “Tangis sang Lawod” tackling the hardships faced by some Roxas City fishermen.

The production team includes THES staffers Kieth Danrev Adam, Jasmine Benecio, Margaux Kelly Bocala, Angela Judgel Pernito, Mikhaela Faith Deleña, Alexa Dominique Ignacio, Carl Bert Aranas, Roland Korgy Andrade, Ayeesha Baguio, and Shamietha Beatingo.

“Drained but determined, we gave our all—because THES deserved nothing less,” Almorfe expressed.

Adding to the publication’s individual recognitions, Centillo was awarded 2nd Best Columnist in the tabloid category.

“My column “Pathway to Nowhere” exposes the flaws of House Bill 11213—not to win awards, but to challenge complacency, question misguided reforms, and provoke critical thought. Real change begins when people start listening,” Centillo stated.

Reflecting on THES’ success, Editor-in-Chief Benecio expressed her gratitude and commitment to meaningful journalism.

“I am proud of my team’s dedication and will continue striving for excellence, pushing boundaries, and telling meaningful stories,” Benecio remarked.

THES’ achievements were made possible by the collective efforts of THES editors Arjan Calanza, Raiza Chloe Tumlos, Hyrisha Kaye Coniendo, and the rest of the team, under the guidance of THES adviser Jose Erwin Borbon.