NEUST alums hailed as Central Luzon’s Outstanding Campus Journalists

John Darwin Arenas and Russel John Guibani, both from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) official student publication, The Blaze, have been recognized among the Top 10 Outstanding Tertiary Campus Journalists in Central Luzon for 2025 from a pool of 23 nominees from across the region.

The recognition was conferred by the Association of Tertiary School Paper Advisers of Region III, Inc. (ATSPAR III) and the Young Journalists Association of Region III (YJAR III), which announced the list of honorees on August 21, 2025.

Arenas, a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management, expressed humility upon receiving the recognition.

“As someone who did not originally come from this field, receiving this award is something I never anticipated,” Arenas stated. “As I humbly accept this recognition, I also share it with the NEUST student community, who generously lent their voices and shared their stories, allowing me to shape my own.”

He also credited the university, noting his gratitude for being “part of an institution that not only supports campus journalists but also acknowledges and values the vital role we play in serving the community.”

Echoing this sentiment, Guibani, a graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Architecture program, emphasized the university’s role in his achievement.

“This award is not just a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the training, opportunities, and steady support that NEUST has generously imparted,” Guibani said. “The university provided us with the platform to grow as campus journalists, shaping not only our skills but also our sense of purpose.”

Both journalists also extended their gratitude to Dr. Alfredo Esteban, Jr., Head of the NEUST Student Publication, whom they described as “more than a mentor.” They stated, “Sir Alfred has always been like a second father and a friend who constantly supports us and opens opportunities for growth.”

The formal awarding ceremony is scheduled for August 29, 2025, at Tarlac State University – Lucinda Campus, as part of the 4th Young Journalists Press Freedom Congress (YJPFC).

Also nominated for the same award were fellow The Blaze staff members Mikaella Elizabeth Diaz and Edward Sta. Maria, as well as Jade Ann Fe Delos Reyes and Kristina Gregorio from Anihan, the student publication of NEUST – San Isidro Campus.

This accolade highlights the quality of education and student development at NEUST, which fosters both academic excellence and professional skills in fields beyond core disciplines.

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