The College Forum (TCF) Chief Photojournalist and Managing Editor Loudy Ann Mabalot proved hes is a force to be reckoned with after claiming the top spot in the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) #CaptureYourLU Instagram Photo Contest.

The winning shot showed a silhouette of a fisherman and his son bonding against the setting sun. It conveyed Mabalot’s message, “Kaya ngayon pa lang, ibahagi o iparamdam mo ang pagmamahal na ito sa susunod na henerasyon. Para sa mapayapang tahanan na kanilang titirahan sa hinaharap.” She emphasized that the key to strong community ties is family, that the spark of bayanihan should start at home.

In her Instagram post titled “when you find both love and home in one place”, she wrote a poem that encapsulates the enticing features of the province. She mentioned its breathtaking nature, rich culture, and delectable dishes.

According to Mabalot, she has been feeling demotivated due to her recent lack of achievement in photography. Constantly questioning her worth as a photographer. Seeing that win did not only prove her talent to other people but more importantly, the heartwarming photo reignited the flame within her.

The contest came with the hashtags #CaptureYourLU, #LoveLaUnion, and #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan bearing the theme of the contest: to showcase and preserve the value and beauty of La Union with meaningful stories shared through captioned photography. (by Jenfrey Benafin, The College FORUM)