The Power of Voices: Paulinian Journalists Attend Pandayan 2024
by Emmanuelle Clarisse Hernandez and Lana Zaliyah Mendiola | The Paulinian
Photo Cover by Erin Datoon | The Paulinian
ST. PAUL UNIVERSITY MANILA - The pulse of Paulinian Journalism beat stronger than ever as The Paulinian (TP) hosted “PANDAYAN: In-house Campus Journalism Workshop and Press Conference” at the Founders’ Hall on April 13, 2024. Paulinian journalists and publication advisers from different SPC schools—St. Paul College Balayan, St. Paul College Island Park, St. Paul College of Bocaue, St. Paul College of Makati, St. Paul College of Parañaque, and St. Paul University at San Miguel—eager to sharpen their journalistic prowess and potential, attended the one-day workshop.
The participants were welcomed by Mr. Earl David Ong, Editor-in-Chief of TP, and Ms. Sydney Leila Reyes, News and Opinions Editor. Formally opening the event, Sr. Ma. Evangeline Anastacio, SPC, President of SPU Manila, delivered her remarks, emphasizing the significance of such gatherings within the Paulinian community and highlighting the age-old adage that the pen is mightier than the sword.
The workshop and press conference commenced with the keynote talk, "The Notion of Broadcast Media Journalism," by Mr. Antonio Jose Galauran, former TP moderator. Mr. Galauran delved into the realities of the journalism industry, drawing from his personal experiences, perspectives, and insights. He elaborated on the advantages and disadvantages of the profession, offering valuable insights to the audience. Concluding his talk, he left the attendees with a challenging quote: “Alagad ng media, mag-ulat, maglingkod, makibaka.”
After a short break, a tour of the university was conducted by the Marketing, Promotions, and Public Relations Office. Paulinians were able to see the various facilities that the university has to offer. They also visited the Paulinian Center for Culture and Heritage, where they were able to learn more about the congregation and university’s history, with the guidance of Sr. Gemma Amor Salaug, SPC.
After the lunch break, attendees were directed to their assigned rooms for parallel talks and workshops. Each session featured distinguished guest speakers:
● Ms. Kayla Pasion, social media handler of the Public Information Office (LGU Muntinlupa) and former staffer of TP, facilitated the session on “Now and Beyond: News and Opinions Writing.”
● Ms. Louise Postolero, Creatives and Layout Editor of TP, and Ms. Isabelle Dizon, staffer, discussed “Navigating the Digital Landscape” for graphics and layout editors.
● Mr. Francis Gabriel “Gab” Garces, a freelance filmmaker and multimedia producer and former staffer of TP, shared insights on “The Art and Science of Visual Storytelling” for photographers and videographers.
● Ms. Alyssa "Zoey" Martin, a broadcast journalist and program researcher at GMA Network and a former TP staffer, conducted the session on “Crafting Compelling Feature Stories” for features and literary writers.
The sessions provided attendees with diverse perspectives and practical knowledge on various aspects of journalism and media production. Staffers also underwent a workshop wherein the best output would be awarded.
After the parallel talks and workshops, the best output winners in the four categories were announced. The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Franchesca Faylona, TP Moderator, who expressed gratitude to all attendees and those who contributed to the success of the event. Following her remarks, a closing prayer was led by Ms. Jewel Enriquez, Managing Editor of The Paulinian. Lastly, everyone joined in singing the Paulinian Mission Song, uniting in the spirit of camaraderie and achievement.