Truth seekers. Truth speakers. Truth defenders.
Lady Gwyneth Aguinaldo believes that being a journalist is a noble profession as long as you serve for the people.
She serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of The Rock Publication, the official student publication of San Pedro College.
To get to know her better, Republicasia asked Lady a few questions about her 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’ve been writing since I was in 5th grade. It was during the Division Schools Press Conference that time when my teacher suddenly told me to join this competition and all I had to do was to write something. My love for journalism sparked from there. As the new EIC, I have to manage all the responsibilities to make the publication functional. Some of which are making tactical plans to schedule releases since we have four issues every academic year, contacting printing companies, and also delegating staff to cover events in and out of the school premises. Aside from journalism, I also have a passion for research.
Defining Moment
Tell me about that ‘defining moment’ that made you pursue journalism and continue to do so.
I grew in a relatively far-flung area ’til I was in 2nd grade, news there travels slowly and sometimes, people rely on speculations without means of verification. Often accidents and misunderstandings happen because of it. We were once victims of it. This made me want to pursue journalism, because I don’t want other people to fall in the same pit we did and lose themselves over something that can be avoided if only the right platform was provided.
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?
Censorship and the red-tagging that comes with taking a stand. For generations we fought for transparency and freedom but until now we are hunted by it. As student journalists, we have to debunk the myths that come with our commitment, and make
people understand that if not for us reporting stories and publishing issues, they wouldn’t have the freedom they have now. We also have to widen our platform and reach those that don’t have the luxury to read news on their smartphones so they wouldn’t be ignorant of the truth and become victims of false information.
Powerful Quote
Tell me about your mantra as a journalist. What message can you give to the aspiring journalist of the new generation?
“Dare mighty things.” Embrace the fear that comes with taking a stand. As long as it is for the people, you are doing the right thing.
