Truth seekers. Truth speakers. Truth defenders.
Wella Mae Tolento believes in the potential of young people to create a substantial change in society and journalism, for her, has the power to make it happen by leading the youth to the path of truth.
She serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of The Warden Publication, the official student publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa.
To get to know her better, Republicasia asked Wella 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 am the second Editor-in-Chief of The Warden Publication to ever serve as its EIC for two consecutive years. With my personal experiences, I began to advocate for bullying and youth empowerment going through the step of self-empowerment as student leader, as student journalist and a volunteer at my church. I have become an advocate of mental health as well. The hesitant application I did when I joined the publication took me out of my comfort zone.
Defining Moment
Tell me about that ‘defining moment’ that made you pursue journalism and continue to do so.
My most defining moment was accompanying the children who came with their parents marching from their residential area in Magdaong to the city hall of Muntinlupa fighting for their homes against demolition in the NBP in 2022. It was both encouraging and painful to see such young individuals fight for their home after many failed attempts of taking it away from their family.
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?
The most pressing issues that affect press freedom in the country nowadays for journalists are the threat against them and the rise of disinformation. The young journalists might be increasing in number, the people who are engaging in social media platforms to spread disinformation is multiplying even more. Moreover, our country is currently not accommodating enough to individuals who are fighting for the truth. But young journalists today are very much willing and courageous in taking the step to stand firm of what they believe in. And that drive is what keep us standing despite the danger against journalists and frustration from people who want to hide the truth from us and the next generations to come.
Powerful Quote
Tell me about your mantra as a journalist. What message can you give to the aspiring journalist of the new generation?
“Walk forward even with bruised feet and an exhausted body” where you are less scared if you think of the possibility that you might find yourself in the exact same situation you were in. My commitment to serve the youth will be a never ending journey. I will always believe in their potential as long as you give them the proper venue to commit engagement with support in supporting their fellow citizens, and of course the benefit of the doubt because we are not children anymore, we are the youth.
