SOME 143 students from different colleges and universities in Metro Manila and nearby areas learned the basics of journalism in the first three sessions of the Manila Standard Masterclass Series.
Manila Standard managing editor Joyce Babe Pañares talked about fact-checking and digital hygiene while columnist, editorial writer, and former opinion editor Adelle Chua covered opinion writing, feature writing, and column writing.
In his opening remarks, Manila Standard publisher Rolando Estabillo challenged the students with a question: So, you want to be a journalist?
“Are you curious enough to keep digging?” he asked. “Are you patient enough to get it right? Are you brave enough to speak up? Are you humble enough to listen?”
“If the answer is yes—then welcome,” Estabillo said.
Reaching out to readers
“The Manila Standard Masterclass is a key part of our overall marketing strategy—strengthening our connection with readers and partners while positioning the newspaper as a platform not just for news, but for learning and thought leadership,” said Paula Reynoso, supplement head of Manila Standard.
The first masterclass was held October 25, 2025 at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City with 50 students from Rizal Technological University, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Far Eastern University, and National University participating. Luxent Hotel, SM Foundation, and Universal Robina Corporation were the sponsors.
Meanwhile, 48 students from RTU, La Verdad Colleges, NU, and Polytechnic University of the Philippines participated in the second masterclass held at Eurotel Vivaldi Cubao on November 22. They were sponsored by EUROTEL, SM Foundation, Infinix, Henry & Sons, Vital Water.
The third session, held January 25, 2026 again at the Luxent Hotel, brought together 45 students from PUP, La Verdad, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology, and PLM. Luxent Hotel, Vital Water, Cat PR, and Kitkat ice cream sponsored the day’s event.
Facts first
“I believe everyone can be fact-checkers,” said Pañares, who is also a senior lecturer at UP Diliman’s Department of Journalism.
“More than simply telling people that they are misinformed or that they shared false information, I think it would be better to empower them to do the fact-checking themselves. This way we help them become more critical consumers of information, equipped with a healthy dose of skepticism,” she added.
Pañares’ lecture included practical exercises on checking whether a website is legitimate, ensuring that one’s password is secure, and examples of misleading or false content that gained attention on the internet.
Chua, who is an assistant professor of journalism at UP Diliman, emphasized that fact is not the opposite of opinion but its very foundation, and that in the age of artificial intelligence, the adage “To see is to believe” no longer holds true.
She said the most important purpose of opinion writing is not necessarily to persuade others to think a certain way, but to occasion critical thinking and open discourse.
“Today when it is so easy to have an opinion on anything, we have to make sure that ours stand on firm ground and add value to the existing conversation.”
In her feature writing lecture, she highlighted the need to always find a novel angle and to draw out the human interest aspect in the stories.
Eager learners
Student participants provided feedback on the sessions they attended.
Said Rizlene Balbontin of RTU, who attended the first masterclasses: “Yung mga fake news na kumakalat (the fake news that is spreading), it’s really bothering me. This masterclass helped me to know the boundaries or how to [spot] misinformation in social media.”
For the second session, Henry Aaron of the same school said: “Sobrang ganda po masterclass na ito dahil marami po akong knowledge na nakuha. Malaking bagay sakin kasi pwede ko rin ‘tong ishare sa family at mga friends ko (This masterclass is great because I gained so much knowledge. It’s a big thing for me because I can share it with my family and friends).”
Kennah Surita added: “Relatable po talaga ito kahit hindi masyadong aligned sa course namin (It’s relatable although it’s not aligned to our course). Nakakainspire po magsulat (It inspires us to write).”
Of the third session, Trisha Orit, a journalism student from Cavite State University, said: “The initiative of Manila Standard to conduct a masterclass series is truly helpful and commendable, especially in today’s modern and fast-paced media environment. With the constant flow of information online, it has become increasingly difficult to distinguish between real news and misinformation.”
“Ma’am Adelle’s discussion on column writing provided valuable insights on how opinions should be grounded in facts, clarity, and responsibility, while still allowing writers to express strong and informed perspectives. Meanwhile, Ma’am Joyce’s discussion on news writing emphasized the importance of accuracy, verification, and ethical reporting in delivering information to the public. Together, their discussions reinforced the vital role of journalists in ensuring credibility and truth in today’s media landscape.”
Gracy Mendoza from the same school said: “The discussions made the Manila Standard Masterclass truly excellent and meaningful. The topics presented were not only engaging but also highly relevant to today’s media environment. The speakers shared practical insights and real-world experiences that helped deepen my understanding of journalism beyond what is discussed inside the classroom.”
“This masterclass is especially helpful to my college program, as I am a graduating student who needs more exposure to professional seminars like this. Activities such as this bridge the gap between theory and practice, allowing students to better prepare for the demands and responsibilities of the media industry. Through this experience, I gained a clearer perspective on ethical journalism, responsible storytelling, and the importance of continuous learning as a future media professional,” she added.
Reynoso said there is more to expect from the masterclass series. “Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand these engagements and create more meaningful conversations with our community.”
The world will always need journalists, Estabillo said in his remarks. “Not perfect ones. Not fearless ones. But honest, thoughtful, and committed ones.”
