The Vanguard

The Vanguard The Vanguard is the official student publication of Liceo de Cagayan University Junior High School.

National Press Freedom Day: Honoring the Freedom of Philippine JournalismEvery August 30, National Press Freedom Day is ...
30/08/2026

National Press Freedom Day: Honoring the Freedom of Philippine Journalism

Every August 30, National Press Freedom Day is observed in the Philippines. This day honors the role of independent media and commemorates the birth anniversary of Marcelo H. del Pilar, known as the “Father of Philippine Journalism.”

The observance highlights the safety concerns faced by media workers, the digital threats and forms of censorship, and the need to safeguard press freedom as one of the foundations of a democratic society. It also emphasizes the importance of allowing journalists to perform their duties free from violence, intimidation, or undue interference.

As the country marks this annual observance, the day serves as a reminder of the press's responsibility to inform the public and the importance of protecting the freedom of journalism in society.

Words by Bless Cyrael Carna
Layout by Ardlymier Chua, Amadeus Ezekiel Escosura

29/08/2026

Exclusive Recap | Higalaay Festival Parade: Liceo Secures Second Place

Report by Zhen Yhuanne Librada, Andrew Maddox Durano
Video by Angel Kryzl Antigua
Edited by Angel Kryzl Antigua

IN PHOTOS | Higalaay Festival Parade: Liceo Secures Second PlaceOn August 27, 2026, Liceo de Cagayan University showcase...
29/08/2026

IN PHOTOS | Higalaay Festival Parade: Liceo Secures Second Place

On August 27, 2026, Liceo de Cagayan University showcased skill, precision, and grace at the Higalaay Festival Civic-Military Parade and Marching Band Competition, securing second place and winning the Best in Costume Award.

Congratulations to all the participants, and Adelante, Liceo!

Report by Angel Fielle Otbo
Photos by Rhianne Josh Biwag, Amadeus Ezekiel Escosura

Higalaay Festival: Honoring St. Augustine Through Friendship and FaithToday, August 28, 2026, the people of Cagayan de O...
28/08/2026

Higalaay Festival: Honoring St. Augustine Through Friendship and Faith

Today, August 28, 2026, the people of Cagayan de Oro City come together to celebrate the Higalaay Festival, one of the city’s most significant cultural and religious celebrations.

At the heart of this annual celebration is the Feast of St. Augustine of Hippo, the patron saint of Cagayan de Oro City, whose feast brings Kagay-anons together in faith, gratitude, and devotion. Derived from the Cebuano word “higala,” meaning “friend,” the Higalaay Festival embodies the warm and welcoming spirit of the Kagay-anons.

Through parades, street dancing, and cultural presentations, the festival also serves as an expression of faith and gratitude in honor of St. Augustine, with the feast remaining at the heart of the celebration. More than just a celebration, Higalaay symbolizes friendship, unity, faith, and pride in being a Kagay-anon.

The festival continues to reflect the deep faith and warm spirit that make Cagayan de Oro City proudly known as the “City of Golden Friendship.”

Words by Rixiel Livnie Aguilar
Layout by Francheska Martine Sieras

Higalaay Festival Parade: Liceo Secures Second PlaceCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — August 27, 2026. The Higalaay Festival’s Civic...
28/08/2026

Higalaay Festival Parade: Liceo Secures Second Place

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — August 27, 2026. The Higalaay Festival’s Civic-Military Parade Competition brought the streets of Cagayan de Oro City to life as residents and visitors gathered to observe and celebrate one of the city’s annual celebrations, with Liceo de Cagayan University joining the festivities.

The streets of the city were filled with 151 participants from marching bands, floats, government and military groups, private and civil sectors, as well as audiences from across the city, as they performed early in the morning. Students and members of the Licean community participated as the 142nd performer, alongside other groups and institutions, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the annual Higalaay Festival.

Each performance was filled with colorful costumes, music, and vibrant displays, showcasing the creativity and pride of the city.

In the end, Liceo de Cagayan University emerged as this year’s Second Place, while also winning the Best in Costume Award. The achievement added another moment of pride for the Licean community as they joined fellow Kagay-anons in celebrating the spirit of friendship and unity.

Report by Bless Cyrael Carna
Photos by Amadeus Ezekiel Escosura

PASCH Scholars Return from Youth Camp in GermanyLiceo de Cagayan University proudly welcomes back its students, Christel...
26/08/2026

PASCH Scholars Return from Youth Camp in Germany

Liceo de Cagayan University proudly welcomes back its students, Christel Merrel A. Salada, Rixiel Livnie G. Aguilar, and John Lirry E. Griño, on August 24, 2026, following their return from Germany after completing a three-week international language and cultural exchange program.

The program provides the young scholars with opportunities to broaden their global perspectives, immerse themselves in German language and culture, and build meaningful multicultural connections. Their return marks the culmination of their hard work and international experience, as they bring home valuable insights and experiences to share with their fellow Liceans.

Their experience in Germany continues to inspire them to value cultural exchange and embrace opportunities beyond the classroom.

Report by Zyza Allura Montero
Photo courtesy of a confidential source

Danztrack 2026: Liceo Bags Back-to-Back Championship TitlesOn August 23, 2026, Danztrack 2026 was held at Capitol Univer...
24/08/2026

Danztrack 2026: Liceo Bags Back-to-Back Championship Titles

On August 23, 2026, Danztrack 2026 was held at Capitol University, bringing together participants and audiences from different schools in Cagayan de Oro City, including Liceo de Cagayan University.

LDCU received several special awards during the competition. The Teachers Division won Most Popular, Best in Costume, Best in Production, and Best in Showdown, while the Junior and Senior High School Division received the Most Popular and Best in Showdown awards. Here are the results from both the Teachers and Junior and Senior High School Divisions:

Teachers Division
Champion: Liceo de Cagayan University
1st Runner-Up: Corpus Christi School
2nd Runner-Up: Iponan National High School

Junior and Senior High School Division
Champion: Liceo de Cagayan University
1st Runner-up: Lourdes College
2nd Runner-up: Philippine Southfield School

With both divisions claiming championship titles, LDCU successfully secured a back-to-back victory at Danztrack 2026.

Report by Bless Cyrael Carna
Photos by Najeha Maca-ayan

The Vanguard Opens Second Batch of Screening for Photojournalists and VideographersThe Vanguard, the official student pu...
23/08/2026

The Vanguard Opens Second Batch of Screening for Photojournalists and Videographers

The Vanguard, the official student publication of Liceo de Cagayan University Junior High School – RNP Campus, is conducting its second batch of screening for aspiring Photojournalists and Videographers for the School Year 2026-2027.

If you have a camera and are eager to put your skills to use, this may be your opportunity to be part of The Vanguard.

Screening Details:
When: August 26, 2026 | 3:50 PM
Where: Grade 8 Lumbera Classroom

Requirements:
• Must be a bona fide student of Liceo de Cagayan University – Junior High School Department
• Fill out the registration form using the link
• Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of Intent
• Camera (for Photographers & Videographers)

Applicants must bring their own equipment and materials.

Pre-Registration Form: https://forms.gle/E6UCt2bRur7SZYTDA

Bring your creativity, your perspective, and your lens. We look forward to seeing what stories you can capture.

Be the voice. Join The Vanguard.

Honoring the Lasting Contributions of Mrs. Elsa P. PelaezOn this day, August 22, 2026, Liceo de Cagayan University honor...
22/08/2026

Honoring the Lasting Contributions of Mrs. Elsa P. Pelaez

On this day, August 22, 2026, Liceo de Cagayan University honors the life and legacy of its co-founder, Mrs. Elsa P. Pelaez, marking the 34th anniversary of her passing.

Her life and contributions have made a profound impact that resonates to this day with students, faculty, and staff. Her unwavering determination to advance education and her personal values helped shape the institution and continue to inspire the Licean community.

Mrs. Pelaez helped create an environment that opened doors to opportunities while nurturing the minds and hearts of students. Her quest for accessible education and her vision for the university remain an important part of Liceo’s foundation.

As Liceo continues to honor her legacy, Mrs. Elsa P. Pelaez is remembered through the values and vision that continue to live within the halls of the campus.

Words by Bless Cyrael Carna
Layout by Amadeus Ezekiel Escosura

Ninoy Aquino Day: Honoring His Legacy 43 Years After His DeathToday, August 21, 2026, marks the 43rd anniversary of the ...
21/08/2026

Ninoy Aquino Day: Honoring His Legacy 43 Years After His Death

Today, August 21, 2026, marks the 43rd anniversary of the death of Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., whose courage and sacrifice became symbols of the fight for democracy.

The annual special non-working holiday marks 43 years since Aquino’s assassination on August 21, 1983. The occasion is observed through commemorative activities that honor his legacy and reflect on the values of freedom, justice, and unity.

As Ninoy Aquino once said, "The Filipino is worth dying for."

As the nation remembers his legacy, Filipinos are called not only to honor his dedication, but also to prove that Filipinos are worth working and living for, and to continue upholding the democratic ideals Ninoy Aquino stood for.

Words by Ellesha Jaezen Go
Layout by Samantha Jade Baslot

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Rodolfo N. Pelaez Campus, Carmen
Cagayan De Oro
9000

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