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JSAP National Conference 2025 Set to Spotlight Journalism’s Role in Advancing the SDGs

Mark your calendars as the Journalism Studies Association of the Philippines (JSAP) National Conference 2025 gathers the country’s brightest young journalists, scholars, and media practitioners for a landmark event dedicated to exploring journalism’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Happening on December 9, 2025, at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Bulwagang Balagtas, this year’s conference carries the theme: “Journalism for a Sustainable Future: Reporting the SDGs, Uncovering the Challenges.”

The conference offers a full day of reflection, exchange, and inspiration, highlighting how journalism can drive accountability, awareness, and meaningful action toward sustainable development. Student journalists, educators, and communication professionals nationwide are set to participate in plenary sessions, research presentations, and discussions on the nation’s most urgent issues.

Exceptional Keynote and Plenary Speakers

JSAP 2025 will feature a distinguished roster of speakers addressing critical issues in journalism and sustainable development. This year’s event will be gracefully led by keynote speaker Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez, who will set the tone for discussions on the media’s role in nation-building and promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As for the plenary speakers, Dr. Roland Tolentino, fictionist, cultural critic, and former UP CMC Dean; Ms. Joyce Pañares, managing editor of the Manila Standard and UPCMC Glory Awardee; Mr. Jiggy Manicad, award-winning broadcast journalist and documentarist; and Ms. Pia Ranada, Rappler senior reporter, McLuhan Fellow, and investigative journalist.

Collectively, their discussions will traverse the SDGs, investigative journalism, corruption, climate and health challenges, disaster communication, and global influence operations. Through their combined expertise, JSAP 2025 aims to empower young journalists to report with integrity, depth, and a renewed commitment to sustainable and responsible storytelling.

Parallel Sessions: Student Research Presentations

This year’s conference features student-researchers from across the country presenting groundbreaking studies on Philippine journalism’s current landscape from disinformation and ideological battles to environmental crises and geopolitical tensions.

Bringing together student-researchers from across the nation as they spotlight timely, forward-looking studies on the evolving landscape of Philippine journalism — from community engagement and environmental accountability to journalist safety, media literacy, and ethics — all aimed at shaping sustainable, resilient, and future-ready newsrooms.

The conference will also feature parallel sessions exploring diverse aspects of journalism. Parallel Session A – Democracy, Conflict, and Disinformation examines the frames and ideologies shaping Philippine journalism, including territorial sovereignty and global influence operations in political and humanitarian crises. Parallel Session B – Community, Environment, and Ethical Practice highlights efforts toward sustainable and safe newsrooms. Parallel Session C – Digital Disruptions and the Future of News focuses on AI, social media algorithms, virality, and audience trust.

Featured Organizations: Photographers’ Center of the Philippines (PCP) and PressOne.Ph

The Photographers’ Center of the Philippines (PCP) takes an important role in shaping young visual journalists through its special breakout session—Parallel Session on Photo Essays, with the theme “Visualizing the SDGs: Perspectives of Student Journalists in Photo Essays”. This special session features AC Dimatatac, photojournalist, lecturer, and visual storyteller. She will lead an in-depth discussion on how photo essays can champion SDG issues, strengthen community storytelling, and challenge visual narratives in the age of misinformation. Dimatatac will also share techniques on ethical documentation, human-centered storytelling, and the impact of photojournalism in shaping public consciousness.

In partnership with PressOne.PH, another key breakout session will tackle the growing threat of digital manipulation and foreign influence operations—Parallel session on Digital Investigation. With the theme “Battles Beyond the Sea: Investigating Influence Operations and Digital Warfare in the Philippines”, the session will be headed by Nikko A. Balbedina III, John Hurt Allauigan, and Leigh Jenessen San Diego.

This session will decode the unseen battles taking place in the digital sphere—how influence networks are engineered, how narratives are weaponized, and how journalists guard the truth with courage and clarity. The discussion emphasizes the urgent role of young journalists in countering digital deception and safeguarding democratic discourse.

A National Gathering of Impactful Journalism

The JSAP National Conference 2025 reinvites the community of journalists, storytellers, and media scholars to reflect on the past, engage with the present, and envision a sustainable future. Participants can expect a day of insightful discussions, compelling research, and powerful calls to action—redefining what it means to report for impact, relevance, and transformation.

See you on December 9 at the PUP Bulwagang Balagtas!

Together, we shape a sustainable, inclusive, and accountable future for Philippine journalism.

For full details on these sessions and the complete event program, visit the PUP Journalism Guild Social Media accounts, PUP Website, and you can email the Department of Journalism office through:

PUP Journalism Guild Social Media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pupjournguild/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pupjournguild/

Twitter/X: https://x.com/pupjournguild

PUP Website: https://www.pup.edu.ph/

PUP COC – Department of Journalism Office: pupcoc.doj@gmail.com

#JSAP2025 #SolidoJourno #PUP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Landco Pacific Corporation Unveils New Student Lounge at Asian Institute of Management, Strengthening Partnership for Future Leaders

The Asian Institute of Management and Landco Pacific Corporation officially unveiled the Landco Pacific Student Lounge at the AIM campus in Makati City. The ceremonial event was led by Dr. Jikyeong Kang, President and Dean of AIM, and Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO of Landco Pacific Corporation.

“We are thrilled and grateful for the donation of Landco Pacific in providing a space designed to enable our students to connect and engage in meaningful discussions and strengthen their bonds,” said Dr. Kang, President and Dean of AIM.

Manzano highlighted the support of Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman of Landco Pacific Corporation and its parent company Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), in making the student lounge a reality. “This initiative wouldn’t have been possible without the vision and support of Mr. Pangilinan. Our donation of the new student lounge reflects our commitment to education as a vehicle for progress and aims to enhance the learning experience for AIM students, helping them become the next generation of innovative leaders.”

The collaboration between AIM and Landco Pacific further reinforces both institutions’ shared vision of fostering the growth of future leaders who will drive sustainable change in Asia and beyond. AIM continues to be a pioneer in management education, committed to producing transformative leaders who are equipped to thrive in a dynamic and rapidly evolving world.

As one of the premier business schools in Southeast Asia, AIM has maintained its reputation as a leading institution for business and management education. Its MBA program is internationally recognized, and its alumni network spans across the most influential sectors in Asia.

Landco Pacific Student Lounge unveiled at AIM. Mr. Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO, Landco Pacific Corporation and Dr. Jikyeong Kang, President and Dean, Asian Institute of Management led the ceremonial unveiling of the new student lounge.

“My time at AIM played a crucial role in shaping my leadership abilities. The case study-based learning approach and real-world problem-solving experience provided me with invaluable skills that I still apply in my career today. I hope that with our donation of the lounge, AIM students will appreciate its value as a platform for exchanging ideas, sparking creativity and forging lifelong friendships,” Manzano shared as an alumnus of AIM.

In recognition of his leadership and contributions, CEO Insights Asia Magazine named Manzano as one of the Top 10 Best Alumni Leaders of AIM in 2023. This prestigious recognition put into spotlight his outstanding achievements in the business and real estate sectors.

Landco Pacific Student Lounge enhances the learning experience at AIM – Mr. Erickson Y. Manzano, President and CEO, Landco Pacific Corporation (7th from left) and Dr. Jikyeong Kang, President and Dean, Asian Institute of Management (5th from right) together with AIM and Landco Pacific executives, and student representatives at the student lounge.

Landco Pacific is acclaimed for pioneering premium developments for more than 30 years, and has a long-established reputation for creating valuable developments, a legacy that continues to ring true since its first development, Punta Fuego in the 1990s.

Under Manzano’s leadership, Landco Pacific has been at the forefront of the development of innovative and sustainable Leisure Resort Estates – CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach) and Club Laiya in Batangas and Costa Azalea in Samal Island, Davao; and The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, the luxury residential beachfront condominium as the last call to be part of the exclusive community of Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas.  Landco BeachTowns are master planned and mixed-use developments featuring cutting-edge designed beachfront condominiums, sprawling estates and resort attractions in premier tourist and leisure destinations. These developments complement Landco Pacific’s premium residential and commercial communities in key locations across the country.

For more information about AIM and its programs, please visit https://aim.edu/. For information about Landco Pacific Corporation, please visit https://www.landco.ph/.

#Landco #AIM #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Muhi: ’PUP as Southeast Asia’s Top Polytechnic University’  

President Manuel M. Muhi, the 13th President of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), has affirmed his commitment to propel the University to excellence, aiming to establish the university as the top polytechnic institution in Southeast Asia.

In his address following his reappointment for a second term, President Muhi articulated his vision for PUP, pledging to fortify the university’s academic programs, modernize facilities, and cultivate a culture of excellence at par with global standards.

 “Sa loob ng mga nakaraang taon, naging karangalan ko ang paglingkuran ang Sintang Paaralan, at ngayong pumapasok na tayo sa ikalawang termino, may kaakibat na bigat ‘pag sinasabi ‘yung pangalawang termino – nais kong ipahayag ang ating pangako na patuloy na magsisilbi at magtutulak ng mga reporma upang mapalakas pa ang ating pamantasan,” President Muhi stated.

During Muhi’s first term, PUP was able to secure its spot for the third time as Jobstreet’s most preferred graduates by employers. QS Stars, a globally-recognized rating system that provides rating to universities and institutions, hailed PUP as second best State University in the Philippines.

(From left): VP for Student Affairs and Services Prof. Tom Testor, VP for Administration Prof. Adam Ramilo, VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Emanuel de Guzman, President Manuel Muhi, Executive VP Prof. Alberto Guillo, VP for Research Extension and Development Dr. Anna Ruby Gapasin, and VP for Campuses Prof. Lito Gatan.

“Sa ating ikalawang termino, nais nating maglaan ng mas malaking effort para ang Sintang Paaralan ay maipakilala at maging top polytechnic university sa Southeast Asia,” Muhi added.

Muhi, who has been serving as PUP’s president since 2020, acknowledged the difficulties faced during his first term, particularly navigating the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Hindi ho naging madali ang ating unang termino na magkakasama. Bukod sa kinaharap natin ang COVID-19, ay kinailangan nating dumaan sa accreditation, application ng COPC, licensure examinations, CAEPUP, enrollment at iba pa, pero hindi nyo ho ako binigo,” he stated in his speech.

President Muhi outlined key priorities for his second term, focusing on enhancing academic programs, upgrading facilities, and promoting innovation and inclusivity.

“Magfofocus tayo sa mga student-centered programs – palalakasin natin ang enrollment-to-employment program na sisiguruhin na ang bawat estudyante ay magkakaroon ng industry-ready skills. Palalawakin natin ang access ng ating Education On Wheels program para mas maraming estudyante pa ang makapagtapos ng pag-aaral ng walang pinoproblemang babaunin sa araw-araw,” President Muhi stated.

President Muhi rallied the PUP community to join him in his vision for the university’s future, “Uunahan ko na ho kayo, hindi ho magiging madali ang ating ikalawang termino. Marami ho tayong kailangan gawin at gustong gawin para makapagbigay ng kalidad na edukasyon sa mas marami pang kabataang Pilipino. Sa tulong ng bawat isa, kayang-kaya nating marating ang mas mataas pang antas ng tagumpay. Patuloy nating isulong ang dangal ng Sintang Paaralan. Kasama ko ho ba kayo sa layuning ito?” he added, encouraging the PUP community to stand ready to face the challenges ahead and work towards providing quality education to more Filipino youth.

A simple celebration followed his address bringing together faculty members, administrators, students, and distinguished guests.

#ManuelMuhi #PUPPresident #PUP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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PUP makes it to the QS World University Rankings 2024

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) makes it to the top 16 universities in the Philippines according to the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings in Asia for 2024. This recognition reflects PUP’s commitment to providing quality and high-impact education at par with global standards.

University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi expresses his heartfelt appreciation to those who contributed to this remarkable achievement, “Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga tumulong at nagpursige para maabot natin ang karangalan na ito na makapasok sa QS World University Rankings in Asia for 2024. Bihira po ang makapasok dito sa prestigious (QS) World University Rankings. Asahan po ninyo na we will continue to work hard and adhere to international quality education standards para sa mga estudyante at sa bayan.”

This is the first time PUP entered the world rankings alongside the University of San Carlos (USC) in Cebu, Far Eastern University (FEU), and Mindanao State University (MSU). Among the 16 universities included in the list, PUP is at top 7, securing a global rank within #551-600.

Early this year, PUP received a Three-Star rating from the QS Stars Rating System, recognizing its potential in achieving international education standards, conducting complex research activities, and implementing innovative pedagogical teaching. The University’s strengths and areas of expertise include excellent in employability and online learning; very good in teaching, academic development, and inclusiveness; and good in social responsibility. The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (BSND) program received a specialist criteria rating.

The QS World University Rankings feature 1,500 institutions across 104 countries. Its 20th edition implemented the largest methodological enhancement in introducing these three new metrics: sustainability, employment outcomes, and the International Research Network.

This recognition is beneficial to the institution because it can provide valuable information to students, increase visibility and reputation, and promote competition and innovation. The QSWorld University Rankings can help the university improve its performance and provide better service to students and communities.

#PUP #SintangPaaralan #QSWorldUniversityRankings #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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PHINMA Education launches new unified brand for two NCR schools

PHINMA Education, a leading education network in the Philippines, has launched a new unified brand for its NCR schools at the #GritToGlory Partners’ Launch, jumpstarting a campaign that highlights the value of courage and perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

During the brand launch held last April 26, 2023, at Light of Love Events Place, PHINMA Republican College unveiled its new name, PHINMA Saint Jude College Quezon City, alongside PHINMA Saint Jude College Manila, the original campus located in Sampaloc, Manila.

“We are thrilled to present our PHINMA NCR schools’ unified brand in the launch of our campaign that highlights the virtue of Grit,” said Ana Chua, PHINMA Education NCR schools Chief Operating Officer. “This virtue, which is what we nurture among our students in the new PHINMA Saint Jude College Manila and PHINMA Saint Jude College Quezon City, is reflected amongst our students – young people, many of whom hail from low-income households, coming from all over the country and courageously staking their claim to a better life through quality education in Metro Manila.

“As we continuously expand to new markets, what remains constant is our resolve to deliver our brand of accessible, flexible, and supportive education to more of the underserved market,” Chua continues. “This time, as we establish our presence in the country’s capital, we intend to serve those from humble backgrounds in this bustling, highly-competitive environment, and provide them with equal footing among their peers. That is why our battle cry is Hamon, Tapang, Tagumpay – because we believe that with grit, kasama ang PHINMA Ed, they can.”

PHINMA Saint Jude College and PHINMA Republican College are two of the nine PHINMA Education schools in the Philippines, along with Horizon Education in Indonesia. PHINMA Saint Jude College was acquired in 2017 while in 2019, PHINMA Republican College became part of the network.

For more information about PHINMA Education and its #GritToGlory campaign, please visit www.phinma.edu.ph or follow PHINMA Education’s official social media accounts.

#PHINMAEducation #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph