This study utilized Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to explore the best practices of teacher-advisers of award-winning school papers in the Philippine National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) within the Davao Region. It aimed to understand how these advisers interpret their experiences and implement these practices. Seven advisers participated in in-depth interviews and shared their insights on achieving excellence in school paper competitions. Through thematic analysis, six superordinate themes emerged: Upon reflecting on their practices, the school paper advisers enhanced student staff’s skills through structured training; the school paper advisers promoted teamwork, peer learning, and collaboration for effective journalism; the school paper advisers mentored student staff through tailored strategies, feedback, and reflection; the school paper advisers incorporated digital tools to stay updated with trends in the school publication; the school paper advisers focused on grammar and writing quality to enhance publication standards; and the school paper advisers promoted advocacy-driven reporting in school publications.