ASIDE FROM being Little Big Star Champion on ABS-CBN (beating Charisse Pempengco) and one of the biggest teen stars in the Philippines toady, Sam Concepcion is also the youth spokesperson and role model of the Department of Education (DepEd).

In a Philippine Daily Inquirer report, Lapus asked the 14-year-old recording artist and theater actor to "inspire young Filipinos to see how education can improve oneself and the nation." In reply, Sam Concepcion said, "This is a big responsibility, but I will do my share and give it my best shot."

The bases for choosing him as the new spokesperson are his accomplishments in the entertainment industry and his being able to keep a wholesome image in the eyes of the public, choosing education as on of his priorities. He is an incoming third year high school student under the home study program of the US-based Alpha Omega International School.

The DepEd's previous youth spokespersons included the late Rico Yan, Shaira Luna, Jolina Magdangal, Onemig Bondoc and Dingdong Dantes.

Next up, I will be posting pictures and videos of Sam Concepcion as he performed at the 6th Youth for Environment Summer (YES) Camp on April 30, 2008 at the Foundation University in Dumaguete City. Watch out for it!