Meet Carl Christian Ramos of the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA – Las Piñas Campus

Truth seekers. Truth speakers. Truth defenders.

Carl Christian Ramos claims that journalists must be honest in delivering stories if they want to build trust with people. 

He was the former Editor-in-Chief of The Perpetualite, the official student publication of the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA – Las Piñas Campus.

To get to know him better, Republicasia asked Carl a few questions about his journey as a student journalist fighting for press freedom in the country. 

Behind the Persona

Tell me about yourself as a student journalist and your life outside of publication.

I have been in this school publication for over four years, starting out as a writer during my first year of college before being promoted to features and literary editor in my second and third year. In my fourth year, I became the editor-in-chief of the publication which has allowed me to hone not only my writing skills but also leadership abilities. As a graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication, I wanted to pursue filmmaking as well so that is why I chose communication studies – it gave me an opportunity to explore both journalism and film making at once through various projects related course works. Apart from working on journalistic pieces for our university paper, outside school hours you will find me either reading books or playing basketball or watching films – all three are passions that fuel creativity inside me.

Defining Moment

Tell me about that ‘defining moment’ that made you pursue journalism and continue to do so.

Initially, my motivation for becoming a part of the publication stemmed from my desire to share my poems within the Literary section. Lacking any prior experience in journalism, composing news articles or features posed challenges for me. As time went on, a compelling urge within me began to assert itself, yearning to be acknowledged. This inner drive transformed me into a student journalist who not only found their own voice but also became a resounding voice for others. This sense of purpose propelled me to persist even harder, as I felt deeply that this endeavor was indeed my calling.

Generation Voice

What do you think is the most pressing issue that affects press freedom in the country nowadays? What do you think are the significant roles of young journalists in advancing genuine national press freedom?

The most prominent concern impacting freedom of the press in the nation revolves around influential individuals who consider themselves above reproach. These figures not only pose threats but also perpetrate violence against journalists. Apart from them, the government also bears responsibility for permitting such actions by certain individuals. As a young journalist, I hold the belief that our responsibility involves uncovering the authentic narratives and hidden stories that lie beneath national events. Our goal is to ensure that these revelations are shared with a wider range of people.

Powerful Quote

Tell me about your mantra as a journalist. What message can you give to the aspiring journalist of the new generation?

My mantra is to always tell the truth. I believe that it’s important for journalists to be honest and factual in their reporting so that readers can trust what they are reading. I believe aspiring young journalists should strive towards creating meaningful change through their work by pushing boundaries while still adhering to ethical standards of journalism such as objectivity and impartiality.