The Quezon City Government, through its Public Affairs and Information Services Department (PAISD), was recognized with two prestigious awards at the 19th Gandingan Awards, a national recognition program organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños – UP Community Broadcasters’ Society (UPLB ComBroadSoc).
“We are deeply honored by these recognitions from the UPLB Gandingan Awards. They affirm our unwavering commitment to delivering truthful, timely, and impactful public information,” said Mayor Joy Belmonte, who was also a finalist for the Gandingan ng Kalikasan award for her advocacy in building a green, inclusive, and sustainable Quezon City.
This year marks a historic milestone for PAISD, which earned accolades on its first-ever participation in the Gandingan Awards. The department was named Major Awardee for Gandingan ng Kasaysayan, a special recognition conferred by the UPLB ComBroadSoc for the historical documentary “QC: The Birthplace of Our Nation.”
Hosted by renowned public historian Prof. Xiao Chua, the 30-minute documentary explores Quezon City’s pivotal role in Philippine history—from the Cry of Balintawak, which sparked the revolution against Spanish colonial rule, to the People Power Revolution along EDSA. It also brings to light underappreciated heritage landmarks such as the Apolonio Samson marker and Emilio Jacinto’s tomb in Himlayang Pilipino.
“We created this documentary entirely in-house, with the generous collaboration of Prof. Xiao Chua. It is now being screened in Quezon City schools to deepen students’ appreciation of our local history,” Mayor Belmonte shared.
PAISD also took home the award for Most Development-Oriented Video in the General Awards Category for its flagship program, “Special Report.” The program highlights city government initiatives through powerful, human-centered storytelling that features the real-life experiences of beneficiaries.
In addition to the wins, seven other PAISD programs—including Usapang QC, Explore QC, Kwentong QC Shorts, Healthy QC, and the Expanded Scholarship Program—earned nominations across various categories. The department’s strategic communication efforts on environmental protection, women’s empowerment, and gender equality also received special recognition.
“These awards belong to every public servant, every member of the PAISD team, and every QCitizen who believes in our mission to inform, empower, and inspire through truth-driven communication,” said PAISD Head Engelbert Apostol during the awarding ceremony.
The Gandingan Awards celebrates excellence in development-oriented media and honors programs and institutions that uplift communities through meaningful, responsible communication. Quezon City’s victory is not just a win for local government—it is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling in the service of the people.
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