Former GMA reporter urges ethical storytelling at TSU documentary seminar

Report by Rainier Acosta | Photos by Joaquin Umali

Mr. King Guevara, a Former GMA News and Public Affairs television field reporter joined AB Communication 4B students in conducting a seminar titled "Unveiling the Truths: A Seminar about the Power of Documentaries in Shaping Perspectives" last April 29, 2025 (Tuesday) at the Theater Room, Smith Hall Building, Tarlac State University – Main Campus.

The seminar aimed to provide awareness in ethical documentary filmmaking and equip aspiring documentarians with both the guiding principles and practical steps for responsible documentary production.

Drawing from his years as a field reporter, Mr. Guevara shared behind-the-scenes insights into documentary creation, discussing the process from pre-production to post-production.

Moreover, Guevara advised aspiring media practitioners to always remain objective, especially when tackling different stories, and to ensure that their work upholds truth and integrity while also emphasizing the importance of creating an emotional connection in storytelling.

“Dapat kapag kayo naging journalist, siguraduhin nilang hindi sila bias, wag silang maging bayarang journalist dahil hindi lang pangalan nila ang nakataya rito, pangolin ng network at pangalan din kung saan sila nagtapos,” he said.

Guevara also encouraged future media practitioners to infuse emotion into their storytelling to foster connection with their audience.

“Tuwing kayo’y gagawa ng istorya o isang kwento dapat may puso, may emosyon, at dapat siguraduhin nilang nakaka-relate young ibang tao o yung ibang viewers nila,” he added.

Student speakers Christian Tañedo, Len Filip Rebamonte, Erica Jane Castillo, Mary Jane Tolentino, and Jamila Fidel discussed the role of documentaries in challenging dominant narratives, influencing policy discussions, and evoking emotional responses that drive social change.

The seminar served as a platform for both professional and student voices to advocate for responsible and impactful storytelling in today’s evolving media landscape.