The Quezonian Staffers Attend Three-Day Journalism Seminar-Workshop: MOLAVE 2024

The Quezonian, the official student publication of Manuel L. Quezon University, recently held a three-day seminar-workshop titled “MOLAVE 2024: Fundamentals of Journalism and Basics of Writing” from October 3 to October 5 at the Victoria Sports Tower. This annual workshop aims to strengthen campus journalism, equipping staff members with essential skills to responsibly advocate for truth and press freedom.

Day 1: Exploring Press Freedom and Campus Journalism Challenges

The event opened with a keynote address by Mr. Martin Asistio, Regional President of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines—National Capital Region. His presentation highlighted the challenges facing campus journalism, such as censorship, administrative interference, and financial constraints that hinder student publications from fully executing their journalistic roles. The session underlined the importance of defending campus press freedom, setting a tone of resilience and integrity for the workshop.

A literary seminar led by Mr. Karl Isaac Santos from Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika, at Anyo (LIRA) followed. Mr. Santos emphasized the power of literary works to critique society and instigate change, encouraging students to use their voices creatively and conscientiously in campus journalism.

Day 2: Behind the Scenes of The Quezonian

On the second day, Jian Delmo, Internal Associate Editor and Literary Head, introduced participants to The Quezonian’s mission, values, and role within the university community. Following this, Managing Editor Nichole Angela Alapide and Circulation Manager Jb Col-long provided an in-depth look at the publication’s production process, from writing and editing to distribution.

Mx. Avon Ang, National Coordinator of the Altermidya Network, then held a seminar and workshop on photojournalism. Ang guided participants on capturing impactful images and writing captions, emphasizing that photographs tell stories that extend beyond mere visuals. This session reinforced that photojournalism is an essential journalistic form that challenges objectivity while capturing powerful, subjective moments.

Day 3: Section Overviews, Responsibilities, and New Beginnings

The final day focused on the responsibilities of each editorial section. Section heads shared insights into the scope of their departments and emphasized the ethical and technical responsibilities associated with their roles. The seminar concluded with an oath-taking ceremony for The Quezonian’s editorial board, marking the start of their commitment to journalistic integrity. Professor Allan Ace Aclan, the newly appointed publication adviser, delivered the closing remarks, inspiring staff members to use journalism as a tool for advocacy and public service.

Editorial Board for AY 2024-2025

The Quezonian’s Editorial Board for the academic year 2024-2025 is as follows:

• John Red Benosa – Editor-in-Chief
• Jian Margarette Delmo – Internal Associate Editor and Literary Head
• Ujuan Andrei Balingit – External Associate Editor and Head Photojournalist
• Nichole Angela Alapide – Managing Editor
• Jonathan Bryan Col-long – Circulation Manager
• Reinmar Lapuz – News Editor
• Dominique Muyano – Opinion Editor
• Raymond Mendros – Feature Editor
• Desiree Villones – Head Cartoonist

Continuing the Tradition of MOLAVE

“MOLAVE” stands as an annual seminar organized by The Quezonian’s Editorial Board, serving both as a refresher for experienced staff members and as essential training for those new to campus journalism. The event underscores The Quezonian’s commitment to upholding journalistic integrity, fostering a culture of critical inquiry, and promoting responsible storytelling that advocates for student voices and social awareness. Through workshops like MOLAVE, The Quezonian continues to inspire student journalists to serve the community with commitment and purpose.