Mindoro State University emerged as the first Grand Champion of the inaugural Communications Olympiad, besting top contenders from across the country. The University of the Cordilleras took 1st Runner-Up, while UP Visayas placed 2nd Runner-Up.

Mindoro State University dominated with multiple Golds in Strategy, Hero Execution, Community Activation, Creatives, Video Storytelling, and Social Media; Silvers in Research & Insights, Multimedia, and Editorial; and a Bronze in Presentation Skills. The University of the Cordilleras clinched Golds in Research & Insights, Hero Execution, and Editorial; plus Silvers and Bronzes across other categories. UP Visayas impressed with Golds in Presentation Skills and Multimedia, and a Bronze in Editorial.

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila earned a special commendation for its strong finish, while Far Eastern University received the Special Jury Prize for their compelling narrative aligned with the theme, Rewrite Climate Change.

The Communications Olympiad, organized by IABC Philippines and the COMCO School of Communications, is a nationwide training and competition program designed to hone future communicators. From crafting position papers to a high-pressure 24-hour hackathon for One Meralco Foundation’s Energy for Development brief, students tackled real-world issues and pitched their plans before industry leaders.

Twenty-two teams joined intensive workshops on strategic communications, sustainability, digital innovation, and responsible AI use, before battling it out for a spot in the Top 15 Grand Finals. The final leg saw Mindoro State University, the University of the Cordilleras, and UP Visayas pitching live to determine the champions.

IABC Philippines’ Ferdinand Bondoy shared, “We want this to be more than a competition — it’s about equipping young communicators to make a difference.” IABC Philippines President Belle Tiongco added, “Your journey is just beginning. The industry needs your ideas and drive.”

One Meralco Foundation President Jeffrey Tarayao said, “This platform amplified young Filipinos’ voices in shaping sustainable solutions for last-mile communities.”

The event was supported by COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises and partners including One Meralco Foundation, Globe, Goodness Graze, Midea, Monde Nissin, TP, Jollibee Foods, Personal Collection, Sony Philippines, Sustainable PH, and Uratex Monobloc. Media and student organization partners also rallied behind the initiative.

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