Rolly Jude M. Ortega, NDMU Political Science Alumnus, Claims First Place in the 2026 Nick Joaquin Literary Awards.

Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) proudly celebrates the achievement of Rolly Jude M. Ortega, an alumnus of the AB Political Science program (Batch 2008), for winning First Place in the Short Story Category of the prestigious 2026 Nick Joaquin Literary Awards.

Ortega earned the top honor for his short story, “The Decision,” which was published in the April 2025 issue of the Philippines Graphic Reader. Organized annually by Philippines Graphic, the Nick Joaquin Literary Awards is one of the country's most respected literary competitions, recognizing excellence in Philippine literature.

Named after the late National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin, a former editor-in-chief of Philippines Graphic, the awards honor outstanding works in fiction and poetry published in the magazine. This year's ceremony also recognized 75 Graphic Salute Awardees, representing 47 short stories and 46 poems published over the past year.

A native of Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat, Ortega has established himself as a distinguished Filipino writer. Prior to this recognition, he authored the short story collection “Seekers of Spirits,” which received the Cirilo F. Bautista Prize for Best Book of Short Fiction in English during the 38th National Book Awards.

During his years at NDMU, Ortega demonstrated exemplary leadership and academic excellence. He served as President of the Political Science Society and President of the Graduating Class of 2008. Together with a fellow student, he also represented the University in the NDEA Academic Contest, where they emerged as two-time champions.

Ortega's latest literary achievement reflects not only his dedication to the craft of writing but also the enduring impact of an NDMU education in shaping graduates who excel in their chosen fields. His success serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers, leaders, and scholars within the NDMU community and beyond.

The University extends its warmest congratulations to Rolly Jude M. Ortega for this remarkable accomplishment and for bringing honor to his alma mater through his contributions to Philippine literature.