Six students from the Junior High School Department of Our Lady of the Pillar College-Cauayan, Inc. (OLPC-C JHS) once again proved their academic and artistic excellence as they qualified for the Pambansang Labanan sa Isip, Sining, at Panitikan (PALAISIPAN) for the 3rd consecutive year during the Annual Literary, Academic, and Musical Contest 2026, held at the Cauayan City Stand-Alone Senior High School, January 10-11.

Carrying the powerful theme “Paint it loud! Art that exposes, Culture that demands,” the competition gathered young minds and creative voices from more than 20 public and private schools in the region to showcase their knowledge and skills in literature, academics, and the arts.

OLPC-C JHS participants rose to the challenge by expressing critical thought, cultural awareness, and artistic depth across multiple contest categories especially in the Quiz Show where the team of Mannyson Johan D. Reyes, Gil Andrei C. Alejandre, Jose Mari B. Cumlat, and Deron Primo F. Maramag emerged as Champion showcasing their teamwork and quick analytical thinking that made them stand out among competitors, earning them the top spot and a sure qualification for PALAISIPAN 2026.

Teen PillariCANs also made its mark in individual events as Nicole C. Andal clinched first runner-up in Essay Writing, impressing judges with her insightful articulation of the contest theme. Meanwhile, Althea Mikaella P. Palaguittu secured second runner-up in Photo-Essay, creatively capturing narratives that highlighted social realities and cultural identity through compelling visuals.

Other teen PillariCANs also showcased their talent and skills for different events: Abisha Niña F. Jose for Impromptu Speaking, Joshua Noel B. Villanueva for Dagliang Talumpati, Samantha Keith R. Natividad for Pagsulat ng Sanaysay, Gianna Akisha G. Dullon for Slogan Making, Nathaniel Angelo P. Quebec for Traditional Poster Making, Aiana Khristin D. Par for Poetry writing, and Yesha Gabrielle R. Villanueva for Pagsulat ng Tula.

With another successful qualification to PALAISIPAN, OLPC-C JHS, especially the proud coaches, Mary Grace B. Agcaoili, Rosalie Ann C. Bernardo, and Joshua R. Pagulayan, continues to affirm its commitment to excellence—nurturing students who think critically, create boldly, and speak loudly through art and intellect.