0
+
Kuya Alan’s Essay Writing Contest
Raising young Filipino writers who think, speak, and engage in nation-building
Now in its sixth edition, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano’s annual essay writing contest continues to encourage young Filipinos to reflect, express their ideas, and participate in conversations that help shape the nation.
Launched in September 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the contest was created to give students a meaningful outlet at a time when many were isolated and spending long hours online. Through writing, young Filipinos were encouraged to pause, think critically, and articulate what they believe in.
For Kuya Alan, writing is a skill that young people can and must use to take part in nation-building.
Hope in a time of uncertainty
The essay writing contest’s first edition invited young Filipinos to pause and write at a time when the world felt overwhelming. Essays were submitted in Filipino and English from students across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The entries reflected on Jesus’ instruction in Gospel of Luke 10:27, which is to love God fully and to love their neighbor as themselves.
For many families reeling from the economic effects of the pandemic, the contest was also a source of concrete support. Twenty winners were chosen, and Kuya Alan was able to meet four of them in person, together with their parents. Masks covered their faces, but the joy was unmistakable as they received ₱10,000 cash prizes each.
A platform for young writers
Today, the essay writing contest continues as a regular initiative of Kuya Alan’s office, open to young Filipinos who wish to grow as writers and take part in conversations that shape the nation. It provides a space where young voices are heard while helping students develop critical thinking and civic awareness.
- Amplifies youth perspectives while promoting reflective writing, critical thinking, and civic engagement.
- Essay topics are announced annually through Kuya Alan’s official Facebook page and are open to either high school or college students, depending on the edition.
- Entries are submitted in PDF format, written in English or Filipino, limited to 750 words, and accompanied by basic student details and school ID.
- Participants are usually given two months to submit entries, with winners announced about a month after the deadline.
- Judging is conducted in partnership with the Department of Education, with scoring based on 70% content and 30% form and style.
Discourse anchored in truth
While themes change each year — from Buwan ng Wika and Holy Week reflections to social media and Christmas — the contest maintains a consistent goal: encouraging meaningful engagement grounded in faith, values, and truth.
In an increasingly fast-paced digital environment, the initiative promotes thoughtful reflection and responsible expression, helping young Filipinos develop perspectives that go beyond trends and distractions.
“Ang babaguhin muna, y’ung pananaw, y’ung damdamin, y’ung mind — which is also your heart.”
Map Legend / Color Code
- Areas with Program Impact
- Number of Winners
Impact Across the Nation
0
Number of Winners
Map Legend / Color Code
- Areas with Program Impact
- Number of Winners