Truth seekers. Truth speakers. Truth defenders.
Mary Grace Anne Tomines believes that journalists have the power and the responsibility to open the minds of people.
She serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of The National, the official student publication of National University.
To get to know her better, Republicasia asked Mary Grace 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 currently hold the position of Editor-in-Chief of NU The National, the official publication of the National University – Manila. As Editor-in-Chief, I have the responsibility to oversee the totality of the publication: I must have an eye for detail and a strong core to uphold the truth like every genuine journalist. Outside the student journalist life, I am an active 4th year BA in English Language Studies student. Thus, a university scholar (Doña Miguela M. Jhocson Blue Scholar) enjoying a 100% discount on tuition and miscellaneous fees, a consistent NU-CEAS Dean’s List Awardee (First Honor), an Academically Highly Competent (AHC) Scholar of Pangasinan from 2020 up to now, and a leader.
Defining Moment
Tell me about that ‘defining moment’ that made you pursue journalism and continue to do so.
In grade school: grade 4, my adviser saw journalistic potential in me. She made me attend my first journalism seminar, and with awe at the discussion, I became more inquisitive about journalism. Honestly, that point in my experience made me dream of pursuing journalism and/or at least a related career to journalism, and AB-ELS as an interdisciplinary course made that dream a reality.
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?
For me, the pressing issues that affect press freedom in the country are the endless threats against journalists and the fast-paced spread of misinformation and disinformation. The former intends to harm the journalist more, while the latter strives to eradicate the core of journalism. As a young journalist, I believe my role in advancing genuine national press freedom is to uphold the line— no matter how hard it is, live the truth. Thus, in other terms, continue to carry out our responsibility: reach out the truth to people, and be there for the masses.
Powerful Quote
Tell me about your mantra as a journalist. What message can you give to the aspiring journalist of the new generation?
“For others to know the truth, one must speak them.” For others to remember the truth, one must write them. The journey as a journalist explicitly means being a master of discomfort: you must know and uphold the truth no matter how discomforting it is. It is undoubtedly unnerving yet rewarding as the journalist’ journey will always mean comfort to somebody — hope for survival.
