In the tranquil town of San Rafael, Iloilo, a young woman has crafted a tale of success that resonates across the region.
Lea Grace Edong, a 20-year-old Bachelor of Science in Information Technology student at Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), made history by clinching the gold medal in the Editorial Writing-English category at the Philippine Information Agency’s College Press Conference (COPRE) 2024.
This milestone is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to her resilience, passion, and ability to inspire others through writing.
Turning Grief Into Purpose
Lea’s journey began with a profound loss: the death of her father, Loger Edong, in 2020. Her father, a construction worker and storyteller, left behind a book about the “Alamat of Sityo Tinukpan,” which sparked Lea’s love for writing.
“What helped me overcome the pain of losing my father was writing,” she shared, reflecting on how his legacy inspired her.
Despite her grief, Lea channeled her emotions into a purpose-driven path. From excelling as a top student in elementary school to serving as a two-term president of her high school’s Supreme Student Government, she demonstrated an unwavering commitment to leadership and integrity.
Her passion for writing flourished when she became the editor-in-chief of Igang Publications, where she discovered the transformative power of editorial writing.
Editorial Writing as a Platform for Leadership
“It was my first time writing an editorial. I was hesitant at first, but with encouragement from Sir Russel Yamit, my adviser, I pursued it,” Lea recalled.
Under his mentorship, Lea sharpened her skills and embraced the responsibility of leadership in campus journalism.
Her winning editorial addressed political discord at the national level, highlighting the need for leaders to prioritize public service over power struggles. “Political power is not a tool for discord but a mandate for service,” she wrote.
While competing, Lea admitted to moments of self-doubt as she compared herself to seasoned writers. However, encouragement from her team and mentor kept her grounded. “Looking at my team, I knew I had done my part. We were doing this together,” she reflected.
Her victory brought pride not only to herself but also to ISUFST, showcasing the university’s dedication to cultivating globally competitive graduates.
Family Support: A Key to Success
Lea’s achievements are deeply rooted in her family’s sacrifices. Despite losing her father, she found strength in her mother, Regina Edong, and her uncle, Rene Lorca, who supported her education financially.
“My mom, despite the distance, was always there for me. She’s my critique body, and her support means the world to me,” Lea said.
Balancing her academic responsibilities with her leadership role in Igang Publications has been challenging. “I admit it’s stressful. Sometimes, I must set aside family time, but I know my priorities,” she explained.
Her consistent presence on the Dean’s List attests to her time management skills and determination.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Lea’s COPRE triumph underscores the transformative power of writing to influence society and advocate for change.
“Editorial writing gives a voice to the voiceless,” she said, emphasizing the role of journalism in promoting social justice.
She hopes her story will inspire other students at ISUFST to pursue journalism and use writing as a tool for change. “It’s our sword in today’s world,” she declared.
Looking ahead, Lea envisions empowering future journalists to combat censorship and disinformation while elevating unheard voices.
A Legacy of Excellence
Lea’s success marks a new chapter for ISUFST’s journalism community, reflecting the university’s mission to nurture leaders and innovators.
Her story demonstrates that words have the power to spark change, reminding us that with purpose and perseverance, greatness is achievable.
In a world shaped by narratives, Lea’s victory stands as a beacon of hope, proving that a writer’s voice can inspire a brighter future.
