Campus Patrol brings media literacy to Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna

Young people often turn to social media, particularly Facebook, to catch up on the news and stay informed about current events. Yet, in a feed filled with headlines, viral posts, and opinions, knowing which information to trust and share has become an important skill.

Taking a moment to verify a source, check the facts, and understand the context may help young people make informed decisions and avoid spreading misleading information.

These were among the lessons ABS-CBN News brought to Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna through its Campus Patrol program, which gave students a close look at journalism, media literacy, and responsible social media use.

Through discussions with journalists and hands-on activities, students learned about how news stories are developed, how information is verified, and why responsible reporting matters in an increasingly digital world.

Francis Toral, head of ABS-CBN News, emphasized the importance of reaching young audiences and helping them understand the value of credible journalism.

“Ang aming advocacy, media literacy, tamang impormasyon,” said Toral.

(Our advocacy [is] media literacy, right information).

She also highlighted the need to connect with young people on the platforms they already use and encourage them to become advocates of responsible journalism.

The event gave students an opportunity to see how journalism works beyond the headlines and social media posts they encounter every day. At the Reporter’s Challenge booth, participants tested their confidence and communication skills by trying their hand at live reporting.

Others experienced the teamwork involved in producing a news program by taking on newsroom roles such as directing, scriptwriting, coordination, and camera operations.

Campus Patrol also brought students face-to-face with journalists who shared insights from their work in news reporting, weather forecasting, and public service.

ABS-CBN News resident meteorologist Ariel Rojas; Bayan Mo, Ipatrol Mo head Dabet Panelo; TV Patrol reporter Jessie Cruzat; and veteran journalist Gus Abelgas discussed their experiences and gave students an understanding of the work that goes into delivering news to the public. 

Cruzat highlighted how sharing knowledge with aspiring journalists helps them appreciate the process behind the stories they watch and read.

Abelgas, who began his career as a police reporter for TV Patrol in 1988, also welcomed the opportunity to share his experiences with the next generation.

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN News Deputy Editor and Head of Social Media Management Erik Tenedero discussed how students can navigate social media more responsibly.

He encouraged them to approach online content with the same critical mindset expected of journalists: verify sources, check information before sharing, and think carefully about the personal details they reveal online.

Tenedero also cautioned students against joining online pile-ons, where users collectively criticize or attack an individual. Even posts intended to call out harmful content can contribute to its wider circulation.

His reminder highlighted how responsible social media use goes beyond identifying false information. It also involves understanding how online behavior may affect other people and influence the windows of content.

For James Ronald Mesina, vice president for External Linkages, Internalization, and Transnational Education of Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna, Campus Patrol offered students a valuable opportunity to connect their academic learning with actual newsroom practices.

The event also gave students a chance to enjoy performances by their schoolmates, including the Malayan Dance Crew and Mapua Malayan Vocal Ensemble.

Campus Patrol brought together learning and entertainment, giving students plenty of opportunities to participate beyond the discussions.

Star Music artist Trisha Denise and rising P-pop group Azter added star power to the event with their performances.

Students also put their knowledge to the test through the Memo Plus Gold Brain Game, part of the brand’s “Angat ang May Alam” campaign which gave participants a chance to challenge themselves through a series of brain games. Students also visited the booth to receive free samples of the supplement.

iWant brought students together for a pop quiz featuring questions about its latest offerings. The activity gave the streaming platform, known as “The Home of Filipino Feels,” another way to engage with the campus community.

Beyond the activities and performances, the event returned to its central message: young people have an important role in supporting credible journalism and preventing the spread of misinformation.

Toral reaffirmed ABS-CBN News commitment to continuing its public service mission despite the challenges facing the organization.

“We will be there. Anumang hamon [whatever the challenges], in the service of the Filipino.”

Through its Mapua Malayan Colleges Laguna leg, Campus Patrol showed students that media literacy is not limited to understanding how news is produced. It also means knowing how to evaluate information, engage responsibly online, and make thoughtful decisions about what they choose to believe and share.