𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐔𝐏 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐒𝐨𝐜 𝐆𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

The UP Community Broadcasters’ Society is set to stage the 20th edition of the prestigious Gandingan Awards 2026 on April 25, 2026, at the DL Umali Hall in University of the Philippines Los Baños. Carrying the theme “Pakinggan, Tinig ng Kalikasan,” this year’s awards highlight the vital role of media organizations, programs, and practitioners in advocating for environmental protection and sustainability amid growing ecological challenges.

Launched in 2007, the Gandingan Awards has become one of the most anticipated university-based recognition programs in the Philippines, honoring excellence in development-oriented media content. It recognizes individuals and institutions that promote social awareness, environmental responsibility, and community-driven storytelling across various platforms.

For 2026, more than 200 nominees underwent a rigorous evaluation process led by an esteemed panel composed of students, faculty, and experts from key academic units, including the College of Forestry and Natural Resources, College of Agriculture and Food Science, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Human Ecology, and College of Development Communication. Their expertise ensures that selected awardees exemplify impactful and responsible media practices.

This year, the awards program partners with Mamamayang Nagmamahal sa Pakil, a grassroots organization opposing the proposed Ahunan Dam project in Pakil, Laguna. The collaboration underscores the event’s commitment to amplifying environmental issues, particularly those affecting local communities, livelihoods, and ecosystems.

More than just a recognition platform, the Gandingan Awards continues to challenge media practitioners to embrace development communication principles and take an active role in addressing urgent issues such as climate change and environmental degradation. For updates, ticket details, and announcements, visit the official Gandingan Awards social media pages on Facebook and Instagram or email gandinganawards@devcom.edu.ph.