Team 2 of BA COMM 4A Hosts “Press Watch” Seminar with Philippine Daily Inquirer Photojournalist

Report by Chino Brendon Tangonan | Photos by Leean Margarette Magat

With the aim of raising awareness on the realities and challenges that journalists face in the country, Team 2 of BA COMM 4A successfully hosted Press Watch, a journalism seminar held on April 3, 2025 (THURSDAY) at the Smith Hall Building Theatre Room.

Originally scheduled for March 20, the event was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. Despite the delay, the organizing team — composed of Angilene Dableo, Ricky Boy Eslabra, Shanen Tracy Aguirre, Cristina Gascon, and Aya Metiam — made all necessary adjustments to ensure the program’s success.

The seminar featured Philippine Daily Inquirer Photojournalist, Mr. Richard A. Reyes as the guest speaker. With multiple recognitions and years of experience in the field, Mr. Reyes shared compelling stories from his coverage of natural disasters, including the aftermath of Super Typhoons Yolanda and Kristine, as well as photos from events like the war on drugs under the Duterte administration and the POGO warehouse raid in Bamban, Tarlac.

"My number one tip in covering natural disasters is to go back to ground zero," Mr. Reyes advised.

He also emphasized the journalist’s responsibility to shed light on critical issues.

"Ang pinakaburden mo bilang isang photojournalist at journalist ay kung maipapakita mo ba sa mga tao na 'itong isyu na ito ay importante, kailangan niyong malaman, kailangan niyong mapansin.' It leads to better decisions in life," Mr. Reyes said.

Furthermore, Mr. Reyes also highlights that journalist, especially those behind the lens, must not center themselves on the narrative. Instead, the focus should always be on the subject, the people and realities being documented.

"Hindi tungkol sainyo ang istorya, hindi kayo ang bida dito. Ang bida rito ay 'yung kinukunan niyo. Kaya ang ego ninyo ay dapat ibaba." Mr. Reyes stated.

Moreover, the seminar included talks from the organizers themselves. Ms. Angilene Dableo, The Oracle Editor-in-Chief, discussed journalist protection and credibility. Ms. Aya Metiam tackled press freedom and the threats it faces, while Ms. Shanen Tracy Aguirre addressed legal challenges and government restrictions in journalism. Mr. Ricky Boy Eslabra spoke on ethics and integrity, and Ms. Cristina Gascon explored the role of digital and social media in election coverage.

Meanwhile, the event was conducted in partnership with Auxilium Sodality – TSU B Human Services, STEP TSU, and the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) Student Council. All partnered organizations were awarded certificates of appreciation during the program.

The event concluded with the organizers and speakers expressing their heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success of Press Watch, they emphasized the importance of responsible and ethical journalism, leaving participants with a strong message, to always stand for truth and to be a voice for the voiceless in the pursuit of meaningful and impactful storytelling.