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TULUNAN, COTABATO — The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) Department of English Language and Literature (DELL) conducted a campus journalism training for high school students and teachers on February 27, 2026. The activity forms part of Component I of the extension project entitled “SULAT: Strengthening, Understanding, Literacy, Advocacy, and Tourism for Blaan Youth, Educators, and Community Guides,” which aims to empower Blaan learners and guides by integrating campus journalism, literacy support, and heritage-based tourism to promote cultural awareness and environmental protection.
The DELL team, led by Project Leader Elangbai B. Dimasingkil, kickstarted Component I with a strategic workshop titled “Campus Journalism Foundations: Language Mechanics Review, Management, Editorial, and Feature Writing.” The training featured specialized sessions from resource speakers Prof. Marlon T. Salvador, who covered Language Mechanics, and Prof. Lloyd Anton Von M. Colita, who facilitated discussions on School Paper Management, Editorial Writing, and Feature Writing.
As the training concluded, DELL Dept. Chair Orfelina Ajero delivered a message emphasizing that communication is a tool for empowerment and a vital link in preserving the Blaan identity for future generations. “We saw great potential among our Blaan youth. They have meaningful stories, rich cultural knowledge, and strong ideas—but they need guidance and structured opportunities to express them,” Ajero shared.
With a participant base composed almost entirely of the Blaan community—including 55 high school students from various year levels, 14 teachers, and the school principal—the activity underscored the project’s commitment to providing holistic support. By intertwining literacy development with the vital mission of cultural preservation and environmental protection, the initiative ensures that Blaan youth and guides are equipped to tell their own stories while guarding their ancestral heritage.
