Truth seekers. Truth speakers. Truth defenders
John Robert De Castro has chosen the path of journalism after seeing the power of writing stories in bringing justice to the people.
He serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of The Catalyst, the official student publication of Polytechnic University of the Philippines.
To get to know him better, Republicasia asked John Robert 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.
My journey in writing started when I was in grade 9, it was the only elective class in our school that caught my attention. Fast forward to where I am right now – as editor-in-chief of the student publication of the country’s biggest state university, I view my role as a responsibility to organize my constituents to rally a collective action for certain causes. Outside the university, I’m just like any other boy my age. I always make sure to allot time to have some leisure moments and to remind myself that I should still enjoy my youth because time never goes back.
Defining Moment
Tell me about that ‘defining moment’ that made you pursue journalism and continue to do so.
Back in high school, I was also the editor-in-chief of our publication, Hugnayan of Highway Hills Integrated School. We are privileged enough to have funds to circulate newspapers within our community. It even made it to the National Schools Press Conference in Dumaguete City in 2018. From that moment, I have realized how my written stories can reach and create an impact on a diverse set of people. Thereafter, I knew that I would dedicate my life to writing stories for the whole world – stories that bring justice to those who needed it.
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?
In recent times, critical individuals are being red-tagged. Media institutions are being targeted by attacks. Dominant and alternative media are being labeled ‘fake news’ peddlers and so on. The distrust in the media sector has gradually increased as we transition ourselves into digital spaces. As young journalists, it is our prime duty to continue to serve our purpose in our society. We need to be affirmed on why we chose this path in the first place. It is not an easy path, but it will always be worth it.
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 as a journalist is our line in PUP The Catalyst “To write not for the people is nothing.” I believe that in every word we write, in every work we do, we should always offer it to the Filipino people whose lives are forsaken due to poverty, corruption, and negligence from those who are in power.
