By: Andrei France Reyes
Holy Cross College made its mark at the first Pampanga Press Freedom Conference (PPFC 2024), an event spearheaded by the University of the Assumption (UA) and attended by nearly 250 students from various educational institutions in Pampanga and Tarlac.
“The aim of PPFC 2024 is to educate future media practitioners in Pampanga, ensuring they are well-informed about pressing contemporary issues, particularly the impact of artificial intelligence,” stated Lenard Delgado, president of the UA Mass Communication Students Association (MCSA), during an interview with Pampanga PIO.
This pioneering event highlighted the importance of media literacy and the evolving challenges of journalism. It served as a vital platform for students to engage in critical discussions about the current state of the media industry.
Renowned broadcast journalist Reiniel Pawid conducted a compelling live demonstration on the technical and logistical aspects of television and radio broadcasting. His emphasis on ethics and accuracy resonated deeply with HCC students, many of whom aspire to pursue careers in media.
In a parallel session, Angelica Marie Simpao-Seno, Chair of the AB Communication Program at UA, led a hands-on workshop on scriptwriting across multiple media formats, providing participants with valuable insights into the creative processes behind broadcasting.
Sarah Mae Lugtu, a popular podcaster, conducted an interactive session on podcasting, sharing effective content production and audience engagement strategies. Her presentation captivated students eager to explore this rapidly growing medium and its role in modern media.
The success of the conference was made possible through the collaborative efforts of UA’s External Affairs and Media Office (EAMO) and Cinense Library units, ensuring that the event addressed pressing issues in the digital media landscape.
As the conference concluded, participants reflected on the urgent need for ethical journalism in a rapidly evolving information age. HCC’s active participation in this landmark event underscores its commitment to cultivating a new generation of media practitioners dedicated to responsible reporting and enhancing public discourse.
With the success of this inaugural conference, the MCSA is eager to organize future gatherings to deepen discussions on journalism in Pampanga and empower aspiring journalists across the region.