Journalists urged: Practice integrity

CEBU, Philippines -   New generation journalists were challenged yesterday to practice “integrity” like those who fought for freedom during the martial law regime.

Erwin Oliva, country editor for Yahoo Philippines, said that even if martial rule has been lifted long time ago, the same principle should still be practiced by journalists today even in the advent of online media.

“Walang kweta ang bagong media kapag walang integrity,” Oliva said.

Oliva was speaker in yesterday’s forum held at the Samuel McClintock Hall of the Cebu Normal University.

Integrity and responsible journalism are two of many factors which strengthened and further bonded the country during its darkest hour.

With the advent of the internet, especially social networking sites, Oliva said, “People are no longer consumers, but are also producers and they are increasingly coming connected.”

According to him, through the new media, “information spread fast,” but because of this accessibility and benefit, verifying such information is the biggest challenge for “online journalist” like him.

“The idea of media as gatekeeper of information is being challenged everyday, so it’s a tough balancing act,” he said. 

With the public’s “changing media habits,” the pubic has integrated their need for information with what “technology” offers best.

“Evolution,” according to him, is also key for any media outfit, may it be broadcast or print, to survive. Based on a research, Oliva said, print media will probably come extinct in 2040 because of the continual immergence and development of online media.

Another speaker during the forum is Dong Secuya, founder of Philboxing.com. He encourages young journalists and journalism students to explore more chances in online media.

As a veteran web designer and sports journalist, he has seen first hand the benefits of a work which is partnered with the newest advancement in technology.

The forum which was entitled: “Reaching Out to Future Journalists” was attended by various Mass Communication students from different universities and colleges in Cebu. — (FREEMAN)