By Crisdeniele H. Clemente 

Joining a roster of exceptional Filipino photographers, Aljon Tugaoen, a second-year law student of Mariano Marcos State University, emerged as one of the grand winners in a photography competition sponsored by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). 

Tugaoen’s ‘Over and Under the Rocks of Pangil,’ was announced as among the 12 best photos under the conventional category yesterday, September 13. 

His photo, featuring a golden hour silhouette presentation of Pangil rock formation in Currimao, Ilocos Norte, is now part of an exhibit at the National Museum of National History in Manila. 

Of the 5,407 entries, Tugaoen’s photo was one of the twenty-four regional finalists, and, the only entry in region one that made it to the final cut. 

In an interview, Tugaoen shared, “Winning is not only gratifying, but, also, somehow, brings a sense of validation for a photographer’s creative vision.”

A graduate of BA in Communication, also in MMSU, he has kept his passion for visual arts while taking up law. In addition, he has joined various photo and film competitions including the Tan-ok ni Ilocano film contest in 2021, where his documentary ‘Ilocos Seasoned in Salt’ became one of the finalists. Before entering law school, he worked as an information officer at the MMSU Office for Strategic Communication. 

“I am always enthusiastic about conveying the beauty of Ilocos Norte through photography and filmmaking,” shared Tugaoen, who is a part time brand ambassador, content creator, and social media influencer. 

The PAGCOR 2023 photography contest started in February which aimed to advertise Philippine tourist destinations. (HLY/JVT, StratCom)