28/07/2026
Future Student Leaders Shine at the Mr. and Ms. SSLG Municipal Screening
By: Aubrey G. Sumagaysay
On July 25, 2026, Nicaan High School hosted the municipal screening for Mr. and Ms. SSLG 2026. Five schools participated in the event: Libungan National High School, Juan Brosas Integrated High School, Nicaan High School, Ernesto Agustin Reyes High School, and Padura-Espabo High School.
Teachers and student leaders gathered for the event with the theme, “Excellence Begins Here.” They cheered loudly as the names of their schools were called.
As the Mr. and Ms. SSLG competition began, the crowd erupted in cheers as the candidates representing their respective schools confidently walked onto the stage. After the opening walk, they took turns introducing themselves and the schools they represented.
The candidates then proceeded to the question-and-answer portion. The female candidates were asked, "If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be, and how would you put that change into practice?" Angel Castañeda, representing Ernesto Agustin Reyes High School, answered that she would reduce students' dependency on Artificial Intelligence (AI) while strengthening anti-bullying initiatives. She explained that some students have become too dependent on AI, while others bully their classmates without realizing how their actions affect others. She emphasized that students should use AI responsibly and be more mindful of their behavior toward their peers. The judges were amazed by her answer because it was unique among the other candidates.
Meanwhile, the male candidates were asked, "If you were to become the admired Mr. SSLG 2026, what would you do to influence your fellow leaders?" Allan Sarmiento, representing Ernesto Agustin Reyes High School, answered that he would influence his fellow leaders by becoming a role model and influencing them positively.
After the question-and-answer portion, there was a brief wait before the winners were announced. Although Allan Sarmiento and Angel Castañeda were not able to take home the crowns, Markyohan Villaflor, representing Libungan National High School, was crowned Mr. SSLG 2026, while Queen Vane Baquiran, representing Juan Brosas Integrated High School, was crowned Ms. SSLG 2026.
Following the event, a brief interview was held with the two candidates from Ernesto Agustin Reyes High School. They were asked, "What did you feel when you heard that you did not win Mr. and Ms. SSLG 2026?"
According to Angel Castañeda, even though she did not win, the experience mattered the most, and the support of her fellow leaders was the most important thing that happened to her.
Meanwhile, according to Allan Sarmiento, even though he did not win, at least he tried his best, and he had the support of his teachers and fellow leaders.
The screening for Mr. and Ms. SSLG 2026 concluded with happiness and cheering from all the participating schools. The winners will be representing the municipality of Libungan to the Division Learners Convergence this September at Antipas, Cotabato.
