La Lunatica

Let me share you a story… I remember one day, during my early days here in the university, a mentor called a special meeting for us, new staffers of the student publication. As a neophyte, I must admit I’m nervous yet still, the thought excites me. Who am I so good-a-writer?! I don’t even believe in my own capabilities. I was really surprised upon realizing that we are only seven called up that day. Why? I thought. And then he spoke… and his simple question struck to my brain creating such an impact to my pen: “Are you an activist or a journalist?” Nevertheless, I (should I say WE) hurriedly answered, “Journalist po!” He, then, exhaled feeling relieved. And the ‘special meeting’ progressed… I slowly understood.

He did explain the tribulations our school paper had bumped into three years ago. Twenty-five campus journalists were suspended and sued of libel; it triggered the BulSUans’ emotions that they no longer attend their classes just to be ‘present’ on their demonstrations. These students rap their grievances toward tuition and other fees increase (TOFI). The school paper’s office closed! Admin-student rivalry upraised. Insurrection … blank…

Year 2005: now arrives the new generation of campus journalism inside our University. Same old university paper with face anew.

While he was talking, I thought I hear myself; I thought I saw me standing in his shoes. Because, even before he asked me that mind-boggling question, I already knew my answer. I really am not into politics so I’m not sticking my nose into such a dirty thing. I don’t usually write about this stuff; I just need to heed my pen’s calling. I was neither a pro nor an anti because I am ever since a journalist! And to be a journalist I must not write about my biases—from the word itself, media which literally means middle. My vocation is to present what had happened and let the people react and decide.

As the new face of the publication serve the studentry, many disheartened the campus journalist to continue writing. Several deemed that they were creating a bogus paper. That we weren’t brave enough to write about different university issues almost paralleled to that of the country’s. But that, I believe, isn’t true. Dr. Jose Rizal once uttered, remaining silent amidst a revolting crowd doesn’t stage cowardice but bravery. Because you among others had the greatest time to think things over before you act. You stand as the shining light in the middle of a dark night.

All you have to do is to observe. Don’t walk into the right side, you’ll just be a puppet; having no chance to decide for the common good and protect one’s interest instead. Ben G. Domingo, Jr. said, “Public relations differ from journalism.” Don’t walk into the left side; you’ll just end up into a bloody death leaving your family’s life in vain. We must not exaggerate any story. Just sit in into a bench, study. Listen to every side; record every voice—then start writing. Be like a productive tree bearing only sweet, zesty fruit. As media man, I find nothing wrong about being neutral since it is the call of our vocation. Mark a difference. Start being different!

Pen is still and will always be mightier than sword. We can make or break one’s life. Our writings can directly affect people’s lives without us having face-to-face interaction with them. We, youth; we, broadcast-journalists in the making holds a very great power. And with great power comes greater responsibility.

Thank you for bearing with me and God bless us all. Kudos!