Truth seekers. Truth speakers. Truth defenders.
Michael Caballa vows to produce humanizing narratives challenging the status quo.
He serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of ComPress, the official student publication of Don Honorio Ventura State University College of Computing Studies.
To get to know him better, Republicasia asked Michael 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.
As a student journalist who bears the highest position in our publication, I am actively involved in overseeing the publication’s content, managing the ComPress team, ensuring the overall quality and consistency of the publication, maintaining the journalistic standards, and upholding the integrity of the publication. Balancing my responsibilities as a student journalist with my academic and personal life can be a demanding yet rewarding experience.
Defining Moment
Tell me about that ‘defining moment’ that made you pursue journalism and continue to do so.
The defining moment that propelled me towards journalism was when I recognized the power of sharing people’s experiences and achievements through words. I have witnessed incredible journeys of individuals within our university’s community. That is when it clicked– journalism would be my way of not only exploring the world around me but also my way of bringing light to the amazing stories of those who might not otherwise have a platform.
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?
It is quite concerning how these traditional viewpoints can cast a shadow over our freedom to express the truth. Furthermore, the power that higher-ups wield can also be a significant roadblock to genuine press freedom. When those in authority control the press for their own gain, it stifles our ability to uncover and share stories that matter to the people. Our task as young journalists is to break through the shackles of old beliefs and stand up against the pressure exerted by those in power. By fearlessly pursuing the truth, we can chip away at the barriers that hold back genuine national press freedom.
Powerful Quote
Tell me about your mantra as a journalist. What message can you give to the aspiring journalist of the new generation?
“Strive for depth over shallowness”. I believe that every story has a being with feelings, experiences, and struggles. To connect with subjects and audiences, I strive to humanize narratives and paint a picture that resonates with the heart. For aspiring journalists, I urge them to embrace their uniqueness and the power of their words, seek stories that challenge the status quo, and be relentless in their pursuit of truth.
