History of CEGP
CEGP was founded in July 25, 1931 headed by Ernesto Rodriguez, Jr., editor-in-chief of National (National University), together with several campus papers that included The Guidon (Ateneo de Manila University), Philippine Collegian (University of the Philippines-Diliman), and Varsitarian (University of Santo Tomas). CEGP was initially a traditional organization focusing on gathering student press and honing their journalistic skills.The political atmosphere in the 1930’s, however, displayed the potentials of CEGP as more than a traditional student alliance. Early in its existence, CEGP involved itself in government issues by particularly calling against the wage increase of Lower House Representatives. During the World War II, however, CEGP ceased operations, with its first president Wenceslao Vinzon's joining HUKBALAHAP. He was eventually killed. After the war, CEGP even became more passionate in its fight for the people and exposure of truth until campus journalism became an alternative press in the time of Ferdinand Marcos. Although Marcos touted campus publications as mosquito press, CEGP continued to support the democratic interests of the Filipino people.
During Martial Law, Marcos declared CEGP as illegal and therefore ordered it closed. Many campus journalists were abducted, tortured, imprisoned, and killed. Pushed forth by massive strikes and street protests, CEGP was born anew in mid-70’s, fighting for campus press freedom and democracy. When it was resurrected, CEGP brought to life its burning commitment to advance press freedom and promote democracy, which until today, has been CEGP’s solid mandate.
Achievements
In its almost 80-year existence, CEGP has been an active player in the political scene, condemning political excesses and supporting the welfare of the violated sectors of the society, including the working class and the press. Specifically, CEGP spearheaded the Democratic Reform Movement, together with Youth for National Democracy and Alyansa Laban Sa Pagtaas ng Matrikula, to call for the reopening of sequestered publications and removal of military detachments in campuses during Martial Law. In the more recent history, CEGP was among the force that called to oust the anti-press Joseph Estrada. Presently, CEGP is active in its campaign against press freedom violations.
Grants
To continue its thrust to advance journalistic excellence, CEGP is annually giving awards to outstanding school publications. GAWAD ERJ, in honor of the President Emeritus Ernesto Rodriguez, Jr., is given to excellent student publications in both major and minor forms. Major forms include broadsheet, tabloid, and magazine, while minor forms are website, literary folio, and alternative form. GAWAD Beng is awarded to the school publication with an outstanding feature on human rights. GAWAD Beng is given as a tribute to CEGP Mindanao Vice President Beng Hernandez, a human rights advocate, who was killed in Cotabato while performing duties for a fact-finding committee. GAWAD Marcelo H. del Pilar is given to the most outstanding CEGP alumni.
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