Young Star started in 1996. That was a long time ago.

MANILA, Philippines - In the years since, the Philippines became the text capital of the world. The Internet became the master of all communities, enabling freedom of speech in ways that were both alarming and satisfying. We ousted a president again, and then tried to oust, yet again, the woman that succeeded him. Filipinos found a hero in Manny Pacquiao and a new status symbol in the Philippine map. Willie Revillame bought a show. Then a yacht. Now, he’s buying a building.

Lindsay Lohan started dating a woman. Ryan Seacrest has yet to date one. American Idol gave us surprise stars and one-hit wonders. Reality shows deluged cable with Paris Hilton, frenemies that raced across the globe and hysterical overweight D-listers trying to slough off weight. Michael Jackson passed away and, if you remember her — which the Academy Awards did not — so did Farah Fawcett. We went online and haven’t logged off since.

Young Star took in all of these, projecting and documenting the views and opinions of the youth, on issues that ran from silly to stimulating. Regardless, Young Star made them relevant.

This new Young Star will continue to do so. Our aesthetics may have changed but the core remains the same. We will continue on championing the youth. We won’t stop hearing you out. We will still eavesdrop on your lives. And we will always want to know what you think.

So speak up and let us know.— Ana Kalaw