“Pour your heart into everything you do” – BM Kitongan urges iKalinga youth to compete with courage and integrity at RSPC and RFOT in Abra

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Education Chair Emilio T. Kitongan rallied young iKalinga journalists and talented learners representing the province in the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) and the Regional Festival of Talents (RFOT) taking place in Abra Province from March 10 to 12.

The Kalinga delegation is composed of 198 learners, 73 coaches, and 14 officials from the Department of Education–Kalinga, bringing the total to 285 representatives.

In the RSPC, campus journalists from across the Cordillera will compete in various fields, including writing, photojournalism, broadcasting, and other media categories that highlight ethical and responsible journalism.

As for the RFOT, according to DepEd, it is designed to provide learners with opportunities to showcase their skills, creativity, and “best products” as authentic evidence of learning.

Before the Kalinga delegates’ departure to Abra, a send-off ceremony was conducted at Balbalan Agro-Industrial School on March 9, where Kitongan encouraged them to embody the province’s values in every action and decision they make during the competitions.

“Be exemplary at all times. Display discipline, respect, and unity not only during the competitions but in every moment of your stay. Whether in journalism or in the arts, honesty and ethical conduct are your strongest foundations. Pour your heart into everything you do. Your talents shine brightest when fueled by passion,” Kitongan told the Kalinga delegates.

The board member also acknowledged the hard work and sacrifices made by the learners, their parents, and coaches before reaching the opportunity to represent the province in a prestigious competition.

“I know the journey to this moment has not been easy. There were late nights of writing and rehearsing, countless sacrifices from you and your families, and many challenges along the way. Yet here you stand—prepared, determined, and filled with hope. That is the true spirit of a Kalinga: resilient, courageous, and always ready to strive for greater heights,” Kitongan concluded.