They say there is no perfect timing, but you can start working and find the right opportunity. This couldn't be truer for Nico Binwag, a 22-year-old Multimedia Arts student at Mapua Malayan Colleges, Laguna.

Nico learned about San Juan City's "Makabagong San Juan-Pinaglabanan Shrine Photo and Video Contest." Equipped with his limited knowledge, he decided to give it a try and submitted some of his photos, unaware that these test shots would change his life. The student not only won first place but also received a one-million-peso cash prize from the country's First Lady, Liza Araneta Marcos.

In a conversation with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Nico shared that instead of simply following the idea of promoting tourism through colorful images, he decided to focus more on the historic essence of the place.

“The idea behind the entry was to portray the history of San Juan. Applied some learnings on what would be appropriate for doing the entry,” he says. “Since it is a historical subject, I believe that black and white would be much more appropriate as it allows the audience to focus and not get distracted by colors, including the collage.”

Nico also said that the entry that won was just some of his test shots because he planned to send multiple entries. But there’s something with his photos that captivated the viewers, paving the way for him to bag the P100,000 cash prize. But the surprise didn't end there. During the awarding ceremony last Aug. 30, 2023, FL Marcos attended the event and generously added a P1M cash prize, sending him home P1.1M richer.

“You do not need expensive gear or equipment to have the best output, just be able to photograph a subject that can tell stories in many years,” he says. “To be honest, I feel like I was dreaming. I was expecting 3rd or 2nd since I compared my entry to other entries during the awarding, it brought me to tears especially to my family who has been supportive on my journey.”

The young photographer then sent his message of gratitude to San Juan LGU and the First Lady. “I would like to thank San Juan City for the opportunity, especially it was my first time to join a competition like this,” he says. “This opportunity enabled me to pursue more of my passion and career and I am forever grateful for it. To First Lady and President Marcos, I am truly thankful for the extra prize. I have been planning to have my photo printed and have it signed by Mayor Zamora, President, and the First Lady but I couldn’t since I am busy at the moment, but I am hoping that it would be possible after my thesis defense.”