Region II and Saint Mary’s University Senior High School representative Manny D. Roldan was hailed as the nation’s 5th-best Feature Writer in the English Secondary category during the awarding ceremony of the 2026 National Schools Press Conference at Ormoc City, Leyte, April 13-17, 2026.

Roldan’s fifth-place finish goes into the history books as the only NSPC qualifier and awardee from SMUSHS, delivering an impressive performance and writing style in the 5-day-long tilt of this year’s prestigious national journalism Olympics.

In an interview, Roldan admitted that while a podium finish was not something he fully expected, it remained a quiet hope. “I was not expecting a podium finish; however, in the back of my mind, I was still hoping for glory.” He also expressed a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude, noting the financial support from the university, the efforts of his coaches, and the expectations of his family, teachers, and fellow campus journalists. “Nakakahiyang walang maibalik na medal after lahat ng pagsalo ng finances ng SMU, as well as all the hard work that Sir Migy and Ma’am Xei exerted just for my life in Ormoc [City] to become easier, as well as the expectations from family, teachers, and fellow campus-journalists,” he added. 

With this achievement, Roldan has already set his sights on returning stronger in next year’s competition.

Miss Shiellah Mae T. Barsicula served as his coach throughout the event. In a virtual interview with Marialis Pons, Miss Barsicula was asked about what is going through her mind as her mentee is officially an NSPC winner, “Seeing him rise as an NSPC winner doesn’t just celebrate his victory; it carries with it the collective pride of SMU, SDO Nueva Vizcaya, and Region II. This win is bigger than one name, it’s a shared triumph, and I hope we’ve honored everyone who believed in the journey.” She answered. 

Regarding their preparations, she stated that “Preparing was never easy. We navigated unfamiliar topics, experimented with different styles, and faced a steep learning curve (even on my end as a coach). The process was demanding and exhausting, but in the end, every revision, every late night, every doubt proved to be worth it”.

“This victory is more than an award. It is proof that belief, growth, and perseverance can lift dreams to soaring heights and turn them into history,” She added. 

Roldan’s historic achievement was made possible through the unwavering support of the SMUSHS administration and staff, under the leadership of Senior High School Principal Melencio G. Bernardino Jr.