28/09/2026
Youth Communicators Trained in Capacity-Building Workshop at Libtong Integrated School
25 learners participated in the “Youth Communicators for a Sustainable Future: A Capacity-Building Workshop,” spearheaded by the Provincial Government of La Union - Media Affairs Office (PGLU-MAO), to strengthen the communication and journalism skills of young learners.
The opening program featured a video message from Governor Hon. Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, who expressed support for initiatives that empower the youth through communication and media literacy. School Principal Dr. Elma Zaratan welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of responsible communication in shaping informed and engaged communities. Following this, Ms. Mary Joy Castillo, Department Head of PGLU-MAO, presented an overview of the activity and its objectives.
The workshop consisted of three crash courses designed to enhance participants' competencies in campus journalism and media communication. The first session, “Basics of News Writing,” was facilitated by Ms. Ezra Cadwising, who introduced learners to the fundamentals of writing accurate, objective, and informative news stories. Meanwhile, Mr. Mark Vincent Soriano conducted the second session, “Photojournalism,” where participants learned the principles of capturing compelling photographs that effectively convey stories and document significant events. The third session, “Responsible Journalism and Youth Communication in the Time of AI,” was led by Mr. Justin Paul Marbella. The discussion focused on the ethical use of artificial intelligence, responsible information sharing, and the vital role of young communicators in combating misinformation in today's digital landscape.
Throughout the workshop, participants actively engaged in the learning sessions and gained valuable insights into journalism, media literacy, and responsible communication. The activity aimed to empower young learners to become effective communicators and advocates for a sustainable future through ethical, accurate, and informed media practices.
The workshop concluded with participants expressing gratitude for the opportunity to develop their skills and deepen their understanding of responsible journalism in the digital age. Through initiatives such as this, the PGLU-MAO continues to nurture young communicators who can contribute meaningfully to their schools, communities, and society as a whole.