Truth seekers. Truth speakers. Truth defenders.

Luis Angelo Damian wants to be a professional photojournalist someday so he could be able to realize his passion of capturing life-changing stories through pictures. 

He serves as the current Chief Photographer of The Dawn, the official student publication of the University of the East.

To get to know him better, Republicasia asked Luis 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 started as a probationary staffer in UE Dawn way back in 2019 under the photography department. Last year, I was appointed as Chief Photographer. I mostly cover events happening inside the university such as student elections and student protests. Outside of the publication, I am a jolly and friendly person. Photography has always been my hobby for a long time. 

Defining Moment

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

I started pursuing photojournalism when I met some of the best photojournalists in UE Dawn in 2018. It was also the time where I met my idol photojournalist, Jilson Tiu, in one of the photography contests I joined. Jilson is known to be an exceptional photographer whose works often capture the emotions of their subjects. These were the moments that made me realize that I really wanted to be a photojournalist someday. 

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?

One of the most pressing issues that student journalists are facing today is the constant red-tagging. While journalists are responsible for documenting the truth in society, they are often targeted with threats and intimidation in order to prevent them from speaking up to the people about what they need to hear about social issues. 

Powerful Quote

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

‘’Explore, Capture, and Create.’’ As a student photojournalist, I have a lot of things I want to pursue. I always hunger myself to gain more knowledge in photojournalism so I could provide life-changing stories through pictures. To all aspiring young journalists, always ready to learn something new and never let your fear overpower you.