List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
1. On April 20 and 21, I reported to the office. I did my proofreading work with great interest. Since I have been here for 25 days already, I am already familiar with the nature of my work. I checked the dates, names, punctuation marks, acronyms used in stories, facts, places, people, grammar, spelling and placement of texts. I consult with my supervisor regularly in case I do not understand what I am reading/proofreading. After my supervisor checks my work, I go to the layout section to have the corrections included. I wait for the hard copies and re-check them. Finally, I have the final sections checked by the editors. Then, if there are no corrections or changes done by the editors, I post the final papers on the board. I usually finish doing my task at 7:30 in the evening. The sections assigned to me are World news, Business news, and Lifestyle.
2. On April 22, it rained cats and dogs. Before I left the house, the skies were quite cloudy. When I was midway to my destination, plump raindrops kept falling on everybody’s heads, including the LRT. To my surprise, when I went down the LRT station, water was everywhere.
I could no longer cross the street to get another ride, this time, a jeepney, without wading into the murky, knee-high water. It was my first time to have a first-hand account of the famous flood in Manila. It was still half-past twelve noon and I still have another thirty minutes before office time. I was debating whether to proceed to the office or just to go back home.
I went home. I could never tell if the rain would not stop and it will keep on flooding till night time. My off duty is at seven to eight o’clock, depending on the volume of work. I did not take the risk of going home in a flooded street at night when taxis and jeepneys are scarce. And so that day, I was absent for work. I just sent e-mail and text messages to my supervisor and editors.
3. April 23, though it still rained, I managed to go to office. I did the same task in the office. Around 5:30 p.m., Mr Dante Ang, the executive editor, tasked me to research and write a timeline of the Subic Rape Case since on that day, “The Court of Appeals. . . acquitted US Lance Cpl. Daniel Smith for raping Suzette Nicolas, more popularly known as “Nicole,” inside the Subic Bay Freeport more than three years ago.” I did the research through the net and archives of different national dailies. I compiled, edited, and submitted the timeline asked. I was able to go home at 8:30 p.m.
4. On April 24, the timeline I researched was published with my first-ever byline. Its title was Sensational case dates back to ’05. It can be accessed through www.manilatimes.net. This day, I did my usual work as a proofreader.
5. April 25 was a day to remember for me. It was the very day when my long-awaited write-up about the food safety and Nikki Coseteng incident was published. Its title was Dining Out May Be Hazardous to One’s Health and it was one of the top stories in the front page. It was actually a special feature for the Manila Times. What surprised me was when I saw an editor’s note at the end of my story. It said: Miss Miranda is a student trainee from the Ateneo de Zamboanga University. I was on cloud nine. I hope I somehow made my parents and school proud of me. On this same day, I just did my usual task in the office.
6. April 26, I reported to the office. I have been enjoying what I am doing. I get used to the routine. Whatever I do, I make sure I give my best to it. I never go home until I finish my work.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
Somebody commented on my second published article as a well-researched one. I can say that skills I have improved upon doing my task are researching and interviewing. My story was based on people’s sides. I did a lot of interviews to form it. I made sure I gathered all the parties’ side to make it, as much as possible, a balanced news. I browsed through the internet and back issues of national dailies to get background information related to my story. I did it not just in one sitting. I updated my story how many times through interviewing sources again and again. And as a result, it landed as a special feature in the front page. It even occupied a half page on the second page. I am proud of my work because I love doing it. I invested my time and resources to attain my goals of presenting a newsworthy story and of publishing a story with my byline.
It may not be a skill, but I say, keeping the value of patience is an essential practice especially for a beginner like me. I remain patient yet a bit assertive of my article. Assertive in the sense of following it up with my editors. It worked.
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
This OJT experience is truly a worthwhile moment in my life. I am now on my 25th day of OJT. 49 hours more to go and I will be back to my school. This week has been a getting-to-know-more week with my supervisor, the edit team, layout team and other officemates. During breaktime, they invite me to go to the canteen, eat and have chit-chats with them. They have been very accommodating to me. They treat me as their officemate and not just a student. They even call me by my first name already. I am grateful for this experience. It teaches me to go along well with people especially at work. It teaches me to behave accordingly. Most especially, it prepares me to feel, see, and act professionally with the world of press and media.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Madrigalejo: Week #2 at Manila Times
List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
1.) I forgot to mention this on my previous entry, but since we we started going to the office, we were encouraged to attend and observe the story conference at 2:30 PM everyday (this sometimes changes, depending on the section editors). During the story conference, we sit along with the editors and they discuss the different stories that will be published for the next day. Every editor has his/ her turn to speak and each one can comment on the different issues raised. With this, duplication of stories can be avoided. Also, the other editors can check on the newsworthiness of the stories being presented in the other sections. This story con also becomes a venue for the editors to air out their suggestions, as to how they can improve the stories in the paper as a whole.
2.) During the break out of the death of the wife of Ted Failon, an assignment was given to me. Since it was previously assumed by a lot of the people that Ted was the one who shot his wife, our Executive Editor Sir Klink did not dismiss that angle as well. He asked me to research about the background of Ted-- where he grew up, what schools he went to, and when he entered the media industry among others. He did not tell me why, but I think it’s because he wants to take a study on the backround of Ted. I can remember when we did this on the feature stories that we had the last time. In a story, we have to be well-researched so we could establish some connections, if there are.
Once the assignment was given, I worked on it immediately and surfed the net. I found all the things that I have been looking for in two websites—the online database of the Twelfth Congress of the Philippines (since I found out earlier that Ted Failon used to be a House Representative). In this process, I was able to apply the lessons that we had on website credibility. I made sure that the websites I would be searching are credible enough to be cited in the newspaper. Also, since the information that I have were not taken first-hand, I made sure to properly attribute all the facts to their respective sources. This profile on Mario Teodoro Failon Etong was published the next day.
3.) This had been my most exciting assignment by far. One, because I personally suggested to write on the topic. And two, because I have been personally touched by the group when I first saw them on TV. I have mentioned on my previous report that I will be doing a feature story about the Dynamic Teen Company. DTC is a group of teenagers in Cavite City who were determined to make a difference in the world, despite their young age. The group pushes (literally) education forward by using their wooden pushcarts or K4 (Kariton Klasrum, Klink, at Kantin) as they call it. They go to the depressed areas in their city including the public market, the dumpsite, the cemetery, and a Badjao village to teach the children there who have no access to education.
I have also read the other articles that came out about them—one from ABS CBNnews.com, another from Manila Bulletin, and another from the Philippine Daily Inquirer. I noticed that almost all of them gave the limelight to Kuya Ef, so in my article, I plan to take it on another angle. I wanted it to come out as a collaborative effort, from Kuya Ef and all the other volunteers because I feel that it is how it must be. In my article, which I outlined in the Wall Street Journal format, I would like to begin and end with an account of one life that has been transformed by the DTC.
So, I looked up the internet in search of more information about the group because aside from wanting to have a pretty good background on them, I really did not have their contact numbers. Fortunately, I happen to have dropped by their site, so I left a message telling them who I was and what I had to do. I left them with my contact information hoping that they would take time to respond. It was a good thing that they did, aside from giving me the address; they gave me the contact number of Kuya Ef (the founder of the group). I tried to contact Kuya Ef and asked for his available time, where and when we could possibly have the interview. He responded and told us to come to the DTC office, on a particular date and time.
Kamille and I left way ahead of the scheduled time because we were not that familiar of the place yet. We still had to look for it. We rode at least 3 modes of transportation, only to realize later on that we could have gone there riding only one. In our first interview, Kuya Ef discussed how their group has been living up to being the change that they want to see in the world. It was very amazing to have this talk with him, because aside from being very down to earth (he is nominated as one of the 2009 CNN Heroes, you might want to visit their sight ma’am, it’s cnn.com/heroes and you can read on their story), he is also very humorous that I instantly felt comfortable talking to him.
I also talked to Emmanuel Bagual, a former gang member who is now the Chief Executive Officer of DTC. He mentioned one thing that really struck me and led me to pondering about how I have been living my life. In Emman’s words, “Walang pinipiling edad o kasarian ang pagiging instrumento ng pagbabago.” It was truly a very inspiring encounter for me. I felt that I wasn’t a journalist that time, I felt that I was also a young person who could do something.. someone who could bring about change in the world through my craft.
When we returned to Cavite City last Saturday for a follow-up interview and to take some photos, I was able to talk to Kesz while we were doing the outreach program. Kesz is another child whose life has been touched by the DTC in a very special way. It was his story that I used to begin and end my feature article about the DTC. Kamille and I went out with them, walking under the scorching heat of the sun for roughly 2km. to go to the public market and to the cemetery to teach the unschooled children there.
The volunteers’ desire to help and the children’s desire to learn were all beyond compare. To describe this group, inspiring would simply be an understatement. At noon, we went back to Manila, I think Kamille went home already. But I went to East Avenue Medical Center to pursue another story assignment.
4.) The assignment that I was tasked to do was still in connection with the death of Ted Failon’s wife. Two days before I went to Cavite for the DTC story, I was asked to interview medical professionals about the head gunshots. Sir Klink asked me to write an article discussing the survival chances of people who get shot in the head, the possible case scenarios, and if there are any survivors. I was excited to work on this topic, because of course, I used to be a Nursing student and walking along hospital corridors just bring back a lot of memories for me.
After the assignment was given (it was around 8pm already), I immediately looked for contact numbers of people or institutions I can come to for an interview. But later that night, the wife of Ted died so I did not know if I was still supposed to work on the story. But I still did. The next morning, I went to St. Luke’s Medical Center where the Philippine Neurological Association’s office is located. Unfortunately, the director is out of town and the secretary told me that they do no entertain walk-in interviews. She told me that I must set an appointment at least a week before, with that I thought that it is already impossible because by then, the story would have already lost its impact and timeliness. I said thank you and promptly left.
I went directly to the information desk at the lobby of the hospital where the room assignments of the doctors are located. I listed the name and room of every neurologist and neurosurgeon in the hospital, hoping that even one of them would entertain an interview. Most of the doctors were not on duty, were out of town, and some didn’t want to be interviewed. One doctor even scolded me in front of the people there and said, “Bakit ba kasi pinapakialaman niyo pa pati yung mga yon? Pati kaso nila Ted eh..” I just apologized for disturbing him, and thanked him for his time, then I left.
I went to the restroom after that incident and there I cried. I was already feeling the pressure taking its toll on me. I never realized that pursuing this article would be this hard. But after that, I met up with my friend who was in the Ateneo de Manila School of Medicine. She gave me some contact numbers of the doctors that she knew, but sadly, none of them can be contacted. It’s either they are very busy or they are out of town. The next morning was my appointment in Cavite, so after that, I went to East Ave. Again, none of the doctors wanted to be interviewed. I told all these to Sir Klink already, because I felt that I have already done everything. I was not able to submit this story, and I feel really bad about it. The next days, I tried my best to make up for that lapse. I wanted to show them that I can still be relied on.
5.) I monitored the email accounts where the field correspondents send their stories. I was tasked to write down any breaking story that comes in. I was monitoring two e-mail accounts (both were at manilatimes.net) at the same time so I was transferring from one computer to another every now and then.
6.) Ms. Anya, a senior reporter, asked me to help her by encoding some of the press releases. I was tasked to encode the PLDT Watcher story and the Manila Water’s dislodging project. I was surprised, because I didn’t know that press releases like these could be published as well. I thought that there must be balanced news, not supporting a single person or agency. I just did what I was tasked to do anyway.
7.) Yesterday, for the story con, Rianne and I were tasked to write freehand all the topics for the story con (around 3 pages) because the printers were not working. Time-pressured and with shaky hands, we copied everything as fast as we can. We just hope they could read what we wrote there.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
1.) Resourcefulness. It doesn’t mean that if something is not working, we can just
put aside the work. The printers failed but it doesn’t mean that the story con cannot go on just because of that. Exhaust all resources possible just to get the work done. I could remember Sir Klink during the night before my Tanjuatco interview, I still did not have my I.D. and the people from the M.I.S. keep on insisting that they cannot give me an I.D. because they ran out of ink. Sir Klink told me to tell the guy there to come to him, when the guy came, Sir Klink said, “Wala akong pakialam kung paano mo gagawin, basta gawan mo ng paraan. Kung kailangan mong i-drawing, i-drawing mo.”
2.) Keeping up to my feet and not forgetting to respect people at all cost. When
the doctor said all those things to me, if I wasn’t on my right mind, I could have answered him back. Like, DUH. I am doing my work and you have no idea how our work goes. But I know that I couldn’t, because I am carrying the name of the company, and also, it’s just not the right thing to do. Plain and simple. We have to be nice even if others aren’t.
3.) Have initiative. You don’t always have to wait for others to tell you what you have to do. It’s a bad feeling when others are working hard around you and you are just stupidly staring at them doing nothing.
4.) Yesterday, my tooth was hurting like hell. But since I came to the office, I am expected to work there. So despite the pain, I tried my best to be productive. Also, I had to remember that I still need to make up for the medical story that I failed to submit.
5.) I used the story outlining lesson that we had to write my DTC feature article. It made the work easier because I knew where to put the quotes and how I would arrange the entire thing.
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I am really passionate about my Dynamic Teen Company story. I am really hoping that it would get published because more than having another by line for myself, I really want more people to learn of the selfless endeavor of this young people. Children, and old people alike, can indeed make a difference. That I is what the DTC has just proven and that is the message that I would want to get across.
I want them to get inspired in the same way that I was.
1.) I forgot to mention this on my previous entry, but since we we started going to the office, we were encouraged to attend and observe the story conference at 2:30 PM everyday (this sometimes changes, depending on the section editors). During the story conference, we sit along with the editors and they discuss the different stories that will be published for the next day. Every editor has his/ her turn to speak and each one can comment on the different issues raised. With this, duplication of stories can be avoided. Also, the other editors can check on the newsworthiness of the stories being presented in the other sections. This story con also becomes a venue for the editors to air out their suggestions, as to how they can improve the stories in the paper as a whole.
2.) During the break out of the death of the wife of Ted Failon, an assignment was given to me. Since it was previously assumed by a lot of the people that Ted was the one who shot his wife, our Executive Editor Sir Klink did not dismiss that angle as well. He asked me to research about the background of Ted-- where he grew up, what schools he went to, and when he entered the media industry among others. He did not tell me why, but I think it’s because he wants to take a study on the backround of Ted. I can remember when we did this on the feature stories that we had the last time. In a story, we have to be well-researched so we could establish some connections, if there are.
Once the assignment was given, I worked on it immediately and surfed the net. I found all the things that I have been looking for in two websites—the online database of the Twelfth Congress of the Philippines (since I found out earlier that Ted Failon used to be a House Representative). In this process, I was able to apply the lessons that we had on website credibility. I made sure that the websites I would be searching are credible enough to be cited in the newspaper. Also, since the information that I have were not taken first-hand, I made sure to properly attribute all the facts to their respective sources. This profile on Mario Teodoro Failon Etong was published the next day.
3.) This had been my most exciting assignment by far. One, because I personally suggested to write on the topic. And two, because I have been personally touched by the group when I first saw them on TV. I have mentioned on my previous report that I will be doing a feature story about the Dynamic Teen Company. DTC is a group of teenagers in Cavite City who were determined to make a difference in the world, despite their young age. The group pushes (literally) education forward by using their wooden pushcarts or K4 (Kariton Klasrum, Klink, at Kantin) as they call it. They go to the depressed areas in their city including the public market, the dumpsite, the cemetery, and a Badjao village to teach the children there who have no access to education.
I have also read the other articles that came out about them—one from ABS CBNnews.com, another from Manila Bulletin, and another from the Philippine Daily Inquirer. I noticed that almost all of them gave the limelight to Kuya Ef, so in my article, I plan to take it on another angle. I wanted it to come out as a collaborative effort, from Kuya Ef and all the other volunteers because I feel that it is how it must be. In my article, which I outlined in the Wall Street Journal format, I would like to begin and end with an account of one life that has been transformed by the DTC.
So, I looked up the internet in search of more information about the group because aside from wanting to have a pretty good background on them, I really did not have their contact numbers. Fortunately, I happen to have dropped by their site, so I left a message telling them who I was and what I had to do. I left them with my contact information hoping that they would take time to respond. It was a good thing that they did, aside from giving me the address; they gave me the contact number of Kuya Ef (the founder of the group). I tried to contact Kuya Ef and asked for his available time, where and when we could possibly have the interview. He responded and told us to come to the DTC office, on a particular date and time.
Kamille and I left way ahead of the scheduled time because we were not that familiar of the place yet. We still had to look for it. We rode at least 3 modes of transportation, only to realize later on that we could have gone there riding only one. In our first interview, Kuya Ef discussed how their group has been living up to being the change that they want to see in the world. It was very amazing to have this talk with him, because aside from being very down to earth (he is nominated as one of the 2009 CNN Heroes, you might want to visit their sight ma’am, it’s cnn.com/heroes and you can read on their story), he is also very humorous that I instantly felt comfortable talking to him.
I also talked to Emmanuel Bagual, a former gang member who is now the Chief Executive Officer of DTC. He mentioned one thing that really struck me and led me to pondering about how I have been living my life. In Emman’s words, “Walang pinipiling edad o kasarian ang pagiging instrumento ng pagbabago.” It was truly a very inspiring encounter for me. I felt that I wasn’t a journalist that time, I felt that I was also a young person who could do something.. someone who could bring about change in the world through my craft.
When we returned to Cavite City last Saturday for a follow-up interview and to take some photos, I was able to talk to Kesz while we were doing the outreach program. Kesz is another child whose life has been touched by the DTC in a very special way. It was his story that I used to begin and end my feature article about the DTC. Kamille and I went out with them, walking under the scorching heat of the sun for roughly 2km. to go to the public market and to the cemetery to teach the unschooled children there.
The volunteers’ desire to help and the children’s desire to learn were all beyond compare. To describe this group, inspiring would simply be an understatement. At noon, we went back to Manila, I think Kamille went home already. But I went to East Avenue Medical Center to pursue another story assignment.
4.) The assignment that I was tasked to do was still in connection with the death of Ted Failon’s wife. Two days before I went to Cavite for the DTC story, I was asked to interview medical professionals about the head gunshots. Sir Klink asked me to write an article discussing the survival chances of people who get shot in the head, the possible case scenarios, and if there are any survivors. I was excited to work on this topic, because of course, I used to be a Nursing student and walking along hospital corridors just bring back a lot of memories for me.
After the assignment was given (it was around 8pm already), I immediately looked for contact numbers of people or institutions I can come to for an interview. But later that night, the wife of Ted died so I did not know if I was still supposed to work on the story. But I still did. The next morning, I went to St. Luke’s Medical Center where the Philippine Neurological Association’s office is located. Unfortunately, the director is out of town and the secretary told me that they do no entertain walk-in interviews. She told me that I must set an appointment at least a week before, with that I thought that it is already impossible because by then, the story would have already lost its impact and timeliness. I said thank you and promptly left.
I went directly to the information desk at the lobby of the hospital where the room assignments of the doctors are located. I listed the name and room of every neurologist and neurosurgeon in the hospital, hoping that even one of them would entertain an interview. Most of the doctors were not on duty, were out of town, and some didn’t want to be interviewed. One doctor even scolded me in front of the people there and said, “Bakit ba kasi pinapakialaman niyo pa pati yung mga yon? Pati kaso nila Ted eh..” I just apologized for disturbing him, and thanked him for his time, then I left.
I went to the restroom after that incident and there I cried. I was already feeling the pressure taking its toll on me. I never realized that pursuing this article would be this hard. But after that, I met up with my friend who was in the Ateneo de Manila School of Medicine. She gave me some contact numbers of the doctors that she knew, but sadly, none of them can be contacted. It’s either they are very busy or they are out of town. The next morning was my appointment in Cavite, so after that, I went to East Ave. Again, none of the doctors wanted to be interviewed. I told all these to Sir Klink already, because I felt that I have already done everything. I was not able to submit this story, and I feel really bad about it. The next days, I tried my best to make up for that lapse. I wanted to show them that I can still be relied on.
5.) I monitored the email accounts where the field correspondents send their stories. I was tasked to write down any breaking story that comes in. I was monitoring two e-mail accounts (both were at manilatimes.net) at the same time so I was transferring from one computer to another every now and then.
6.) Ms. Anya, a senior reporter, asked me to help her by encoding some of the press releases. I was tasked to encode the PLDT Watcher story and the Manila Water’s dislodging project. I was surprised, because I didn’t know that press releases like these could be published as well. I thought that there must be balanced news, not supporting a single person or agency. I just did what I was tasked to do anyway.
7.) Yesterday, for the story con, Rianne and I were tasked to write freehand all the topics for the story con (around 3 pages) because the printers were not working. Time-pressured and with shaky hands, we copied everything as fast as we can. We just hope they could read what we wrote there.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
1.) Resourcefulness. It doesn’t mean that if something is not working, we can just
put aside the work. The printers failed but it doesn’t mean that the story con cannot go on just because of that. Exhaust all resources possible just to get the work done. I could remember Sir Klink during the night before my Tanjuatco interview, I still did not have my I.D. and the people from the M.I.S. keep on insisting that they cannot give me an I.D. because they ran out of ink. Sir Klink told me to tell the guy there to come to him, when the guy came, Sir Klink said, “Wala akong pakialam kung paano mo gagawin, basta gawan mo ng paraan. Kung kailangan mong i-drawing, i-drawing mo.”
2.) Keeping up to my feet and not forgetting to respect people at all cost. When
the doctor said all those things to me, if I wasn’t on my right mind, I could have answered him back. Like, DUH. I am doing my work and you have no idea how our work goes. But I know that I couldn’t, because I am carrying the name of the company, and also, it’s just not the right thing to do. Plain and simple. We have to be nice even if others aren’t.
3.) Have initiative. You don’t always have to wait for others to tell you what you have to do. It’s a bad feeling when others are working hard around you and you are just stupidly staring at them doing nothing.
4.) Yesterday, my tooth was hurting like hell. But since I came to the office, I am expected to work there. So despite the pain, I tried my best to be productive. Also, I had to remember that I still need to make up for the medical story that I failed to submit.
5.) I used the story outlining lesson that we had to write my DTC feature article. It made the work easier because I knew where to put the quotes and how I would arrange the entire thing.
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I am really passionate about my Dynamic Teen Company story. I am really hoping that it would get published because more than having another by line for myself, I really want more people to learn of the selfless endeavor of this young people. Children, and old people alike, can indeed make a difference. That I is what the DTC has just proven and that is the message that I would want to get across.
I want them to get inspired in the same way that I was.
De Leon: Week #1 at Peace Works
List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
April 14, 2009
10:15 to 11:45 noon
We had a brief orientation about the organization, PAZ, including its goals and sister organizations such as Katilingban, Nagdilaab, CPD-WMSU, and IRMSP. We also talked about the function of PeaceWorks as the information arm of PAZ and as an alternative source of news here in the city. The orientation was lead by Darwin Wally Wee.
An overview about peace journalism was also given to us by Darwin and our EIC, Rey Luis Banagudos. Afterwards, we were given our first story assignments for this week. I was tasked to write about Akay Kalinga, a non-government organization that offers social and educational services to street children of Zamboanga City.
12:00 noon
Right after the brief orientation and distribution of story assignments, I dropped by the main office of PAZ to inquire about contacts of people involved in the article. I got the number of Akay Kalinga Center to contact Ms. Loida Sapalo, Center in charge, and the office of Claret Missionaries to contact Fr. Angel Calvo.
1:30 to 4:00 pm
I started to make a phone call to the offices mentioned above to schedule an interview with the people involved. Unfortunately, Ms. Sapalo was out for an activity so I got her mobile number and sent her an SMS regarding the interview. We had an informal correspondence through mobile. I also dropped a letter of appointment at the center to formally set the interview the next day. We agreed to have it at 5:00 in the afternoon at the center and she confirmed it through SMS.
I also called at the office of Fr. Calvo but I was asked to make another call after an hour. During this time, I made the letter of appointment for Ms. Loida. Then I called back and finally arranged an interview with Fr. Calvo at 2:30 in the afternoon the following day at the office of PAZ.
April 15, 2009
9:30 am – 11:00 am
Early morning, I tried to search for information on the web regarding the subject of my story, Akay Kalinga. I found relevant links and read some write-ups and articles for background information about Akay Kalinga and Katilingban sa Kalambuan. I also asked some friends who have been with PAZ some information about Fr. Calvo. During this time, I already had my MP5 player charged for the voice recorder that I will be using for the interviews.
1:00-2:15
I went to town at around one in the afternoon to buy a notebook and batteries for the still camera. After such, I went back to school to finalize the guide questions for the interview. At ten minutes pass two o’clock, I arrived at the office of PAZ and I was instructed to go to Claret campus because Fr. Calvo wanted to have the interview at his office instead. So, I rushed into Claret and located his office. I was still ten minutes early before the scheduled interview so I had the chance to have a personal chat with Fr. Calvo and tried to get along with him first before asking the real thing.
2:30 – 3:30 pm
The interview lasted for around forty minutes and I was lucky enough that Fr. Calvo allowed me to have the interview recorded. I went back to school after the interview and tried to assess the information I have at hand and finalized the questions for the next interview.
4:40 pm – 5:50 pm
Around 4:40 in the afternoon, I arrived at the Akay Kalinga center. When I got there, I met Ms. Sapalo and we immediately started with the interview. She was also kind enough to allow me to have the entire interview recorded and gave me the privilege to talk to one of the center’s high school graduates. Then, I took some photos of the children, the facilities of the center and its façade. I also asked for some documents that will reflect the records of the children who entered formal schooling. She asked me to go back the next day for the documents that I requested. I left the center before six o’clock in the evening.
7:10 – 9:00 pm
After dinner, I reviewed all the information that I had from the interviews. I checked my notes and listened to the recorded files and jot down the necessary information that I need. I organized the raw data for easier reference and tried to plan the structure of the story.
11:00 – 12:30 am
It was already pass eleven in the evening when I began to write the draft of the story and stopped writing half pass the hour of twelve.
April 15, 2009
10:00 to 11:30 am
At ten in the morning, I continued to write the story and was not able to finish it yet because there was information that I had to get from the documents from Ms. Sapalo. She asked me to come to the center at around three or four in the afternoon.
3:20 to 4:00 pm
I went to the center at 3:20 and arrived at 3:30. When I got there, she was not yet ready with the documents so I took some more photos while waiting for her. Then, I left the center when she handed me the papers.
6:00 to 8:00 pm
I continued writing the story at pass six in the evening and finished everything at pass eight. Then, I sent the story to the EIC through e-mail.
9:00 to 10:30 pm
Pass nine, I started selecting the photos that I will submit for final selection. I worked on the photo enhancements and photo captions.
April 15, 2009
3:00 – 5:00 pm
We were suppose to have our weekly consultation with our EIC on a Friday, as scheduled, but it was moved a day after because Sir Rey was in Ipil for a news coverage. We started at three in the afternoon, discussing our written weekly report. It was a casual conversation about our experiences during the week. Then, Sir Rey started assessing our first submitted stories. He said that it was actually a good start and after the conversation, he instructed us to work with the webmaster to publish the stories in the web. Christine and I were tasked to select at most three photos to accompany our story. Then, it was published on the web.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
Dealing with people and trying to get along with them the first time you meet them is one important skill that I have started to learn. The interviews helped me a lot to establish confidence and appropriate aura when facing different kinds of people.
Working independently and utilizing the time for urgent matters was another thing that I also learned without having a teacher. Doing work-related tasks during vacant time avoids cramming. Finding ways to do things that are new to me is also important to finish a task.
Spontaneity during interviews
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
Many things happen while working in the field. You have to look for the people who will give you the information. You should know the things that you actually do not know.
I remember when I was looking for the Akay Kalinga Center. I almost reached thirty minutes looking for the exact location of the center because it was my first time to go that place. Until I finally located the center and so I dropped the letter for Ms. Sapalo. The next day, during the interview, in the middle of our conversation the rain poured so hard and I worried so much about the noise because I was recording the interview. And there were other external noises like the vehicles in the neighborhood and children shouting. So, I really had to jot down everything as much as I can to make sure that I get all the information that I need. I was about to take a photo of the façade but there was water all over the place so I decided to take the photo the following day when I get the documents that I need. As I walked out of the small road, my feet soaked into the water and I had no choice because that is the only way to get into the main road. It was still drizzling and so I had to walk with my soaked feet and I was already starting to feel cold because the rain was continuously pouring. There was no vacant tricycle so I headed my way to the jeepney terminal and finally arrived home all wet.
There were also financial struggles because I had to spend much on the fare since I ride the tricycle most of the time because it is my first time to go the places that I had to go to. Then I really had to save every peso that I have so that I can still go home after the long day.
These things, I know are just simple experiences compared to the real experience if ever I’ll become a professional journalist. But right now, as a student I think that the most difficult part is still on doing the story, putting up the words, planning the structure, selecting the information, and the entire “writing” as a whole. Because after all, this is the only thing that the people would see. All the hard work will be of no use if the story is not written very well. So, it really took me a long time to finish the story.
April 14, 2009
10:15 to 11:45 noon
We had a brief orientation about the organization, PAZ, including its goals and sister organizations such as Katilingban, Nagdilaab, CPD-WMSU, and IRMSP. We also talked about the function of PeaceWorks as the information arm of PAZ and as an alternative source of news here in the city. The orientation was lead by Darwin Wally Wee.
An overview about peace journalism was also given to us by Darwin and our EIC, Rey Luis Banagudos. Afterwards, we were given our first story assignments for this week. I was tasked to write about Akay Kalinga, a non-government organization that offers social and educational services to street children of Zamboanga City.
12:00 noon
Right after the brief orientation and distribution of story assignments, I dropped by the main office of PAZ to inquire about contacts of people involved in the article. I got the number of Akay Kalinga Center to contact Ms. Loida Sapalo, Center in charge, and the office of Claret Missionaries to contact Fr. Angel Calvo.
1:30 to 4:00 pm
I started to make a phone call to the offices mentioned above to schedule an interview with the people involved. Unfortunately, Ms. Sapalo was out for an activity so I got her mobile number and sent her an SMS regarding the interview. We had an informal correspondence through mobile. I also dropped a letter of appointment at the center to formally set the interview the next day. We agreed to have it at 5:00 in the afternoon at the center and she confirmed it through SMS.
I also called at the office of Fr. Calvo but I was asked to make another call after an hour. During this time, I made the letter of appointment for Ms. Loida. Then I called back and finally arranged an interview with Fr. Calvo at 2:30 in the afternoon the following day at the office of PAZ.
April 15, 2009
9:30 am – 11:00 am
Early morning, I tried to search for information on the web regarding the subject of my story, Akay Kalinga. I found relevant links and read some write-ups and articles for background information about Akay Kalinga and Katilingban sa Kalambuan. I also asked some friends who have been with PAZ some information about Fr. Calvo. During this time, I already had my MP5 player charged for the voice recorder that I will be using for the interviews.
1:00-2:15
I went to town at around one in the afternoon to buy a notebook and batteries for the still camera. After such, I went back to school to finalize the guide questions for the interview. At ten minutes pass two o’clock, I arrived at the office of PAZ and I was instructed to go to Claret campus because Fr. Calvo wanted to have the interview at his office instead. So, I rushed into Claret and located his office. I was still ten minutes early before the scheduled interview so I had the chance to have a personal chat with Fr. Calvo and tried to get along with him first before asking the real thing.
2:30 – 3:30 pm
The interview lasted for around forty minutes and I was lucky enough that Fr. Calvo allowed me to have the interview recorded. I went back to school after the interview and tried to assess the information I have at hand and finalized the questions for the next interview.
4:40 pm – 5:50 pm
Around 4:40 in the afternoon, I arrived at the Akay Kalinga center. When I got there, I met Ms. Sapalo and we immediately started with the interview. She was also kind enough to allow me to have the entire interview recorded and gave me the privilege to talk to one of the center’s high school graduates. Then, I took some photos of the children, the facilities of the center and its façade. I also asked for some documents that will reflect the records of the children who entered formal schooling. She asked me to go back the next day for the documents that I requested. I left the center before six o’clock in the evening.
7:10 – 9:00 pm
After dinner, I reviewed all the information that I had from the interviews. I checked my notes and listened to the recorded files and jot down the necessary information that I need. I organized the raw data for easier reference and tried to plan the structure of the story.
11:00 – 12:30 am
It was already pass eleven in the evening when I began to write the draft of the story and stopped writing half pass the hour of twelve.
April 15, 2009
10:00 to 11:30 am
At ten in the morning, I continued to write the story and was not able to finish it yet because there was information that I had to get from the documents from Ms. Sapalo. She asked me to come to the center at around three or four in the afternoon.
3:20 to 4:00 pm
I went to the center at 3:20 and arrived at 3:30. When I got there, she was not yet ready with the documents so I took some more photos while waiting for her. Then, I left the center when she handed me the papers.
6:00 to 8:00 pm
I continued writing the story at pass six in the evening and finished everything at pass eight. Then, I sent the story to the EIC through e-mail.
9:00 to 10:30 pm
Pass nine, I started selecting the photos that I will submit for final selection. I worked on the photo enhancements and photo captions.
April 15, 2009
3:00 – 5:00 pm
We were suppose to have our weekly consultation with our EIC on a Friday, as scheduled, but it was moved a day after because Sir Rey was in Ipil for a news coverage. We started at three in the afternoon, discussing our written weekly report. It was a casual conversation about our experiences during the week. Then, Sir Rey started assessing our first submitted stories. He said that it was actually a good start and after the conversation, he instructed us to work with the webmaster to publish the stories in the web. Christine and I were tasked to select at most three photos to accompany our story. Then, it was published on the web.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
Dealing with people and trying to get along with them the first time you meet them is one important skill that I have started to learn. The interviews helped me a lot to establish confidence and appropriate aura when facing different kinds of people.
Working independently and utilizing the time for urgent matters was another thing that I also learned without having a teacher. Doing work-related tasks during vacant time avoids cramming. Finding ways to do things that are new to me is also important to finish a task.
Spontaneity during interviews
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
Many things happen while working in the field. You have to look for the people who will give you the information. You should know the things that you actually do not know.
I remember when I was looking for the Akay Kalinga Center. I almost reached thirty minutes looking for the exact location of the center because it was my first time to go that place. Until I finally located the center and so I dropped the letter for Ms. Sapalo. The next day, during the interview, in the middle of our conversation the rain poured so hard and I worried so much about the noise because I was recording the interview. And there were other external noises like the vehicles in the neighborhood and children shouting. So, I really had to jot down everything as much as I can to make sure that I get all the information that I need. I was about to take a photo of the façade but there was water all over the place so I decided to take the photo the following day when I get the documents that I need. As I walked out of the small road, my feet soaked into the water and I had no choice because that is the only way to get into the main road. It was still drizzling and so I had to walk with my soaked feet and I was already starting to feel cold because the rain was continuously pouring. There was no vacant tricycle so I headed my way to the jeepney terminal and finally arrived home all wet.
There were also financial struggles because I had to spend much on the fare since I ride the tricycle most of the time because it is my first time to go the places that I had to go to. Then I really had to save every peso that I have so that I can still go home after the long day.
These things, I know are just simple experiences compared to the real experience if ever I’ll become a professional journalist. But right now, as a student I think that the most difficult part is still on doing the story, putting up the words, planning the structure, selecting the information, and the entire “writing” as a whole. Because after all, this is the only thing that the people would see. All the hard work will be of no use if the story is not written very well. So, it really took me a long time to finish the story.
De Leon: Week #2 at Peace Works
List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
April 20, 2009
9:19 AM
New story assignments were given to us for this week. I have two assigned stories to write, one is on Tanglaw Buhay Center and the other is a short feature on the city’s public parks, beaches and other recreational spots. The assignments were sent to us through e-mail along with brief descriptions. Then I thought of how to contact offices and people that I need for these stories.
2:00-3:30 PM
I sent a letter of appointment to Ma’am Marcelina Carpizo, point person for Tanglaw story, at her office in CPD-WMSU. Unfortunately, she is in Thailand until next week. Instead, Kit Berik, the one who received the letter, forwarded me to Rosevie Remulta. It was raining hard that time and so I decided to go home and make phone calls to follow-up all appointment interviews.
It took me four call attempts before I finally got the chance to talk to Ma’am Remulta because she was out of the office. We agreed to have the interview the following day and exchanged numbers to confirm the schedule.
With the numbers I got from the directory, I called up the city tourism office to inquire how I can possibly make an appointment with Sarita Hernandez, the city tourism officer. I was instructed to pass through the mayor’s office before having access with the tourism office.
7:30-8:00 pm
Ma’am Remulta asked me to send the guide questions for the interview beforehand so she can prepare the necessary information. So, I sent it to her-email address and made the letter for tourism office at the same time.
9:00-11:30
In preparation for the short feature on the city’s recreational spots, I read some online information about the benefits of recreation and some information on the city’s tourist spots. I also prelisted the public beaches, parks, pools and aviary that I know here in the city.
April 21, 2009
10:00 AM
I was bringing along with me the letter of approval for the mayor, so I can meet with the city tourism officer. I dropped it to the office of the secretary to the mayor and I was asked to follow-up the communication the following day.
While waiting for Remulta’s confirmation of the schedule, I checked out some online information about child-trafficking. Then she finally confirmed that we’ll have it at three o’clock in the afternoon.
2:30-5:00 PM
I went to the center at around 2:30 because Ma’am Remulta was quite in a hurry and even wanted to move the interview the next day. So, we made some rushed arrangements and had it earlier. Luckily, the resident psychologist, Claire Miranda, was also at the center that time and so I had the chance to talk to her and get some necessary information from her.
5:00-6:30
I made the transcription necessary information from the recorded interview and ran down my notes to outline my story.
April 22, 2009
10:30-12:30 noon
I wrote and finished the story on Tanglaw Buhay during this time and decided to go on with the other article. I talked to Ma’am Sarita Hernandez earlier than this time, through phone call, and she told me how busy the office is right now. She gave no assurance about the schedule of the interview and just said the she’ll get back to me as soon as her schedule gets fixed.
1:30 PM
I tried to contact the office of the city’s general services but i was really having problem the phone unit that I was using. All the while, I thought something is wrong with the line or the office’s number has already changed. Instead, I tried to look for other information in the web to check the functions and responsibilities of the office.
8:00 PM
As promised, I sent a copy of the article to Ma’am Remulta for counter checking.
April 23, 2009
10:00 AM
Again, I tried to look for Engr. Dela Cruz who is in charge of the office of the general services and luckily, I was able to connect through a different number. It was a good thing that I don’t have to pass through the mayor’s office before they can give me some information that I need. However, he said that the office is really busy this week in preparation for “Dia de Caling” on Sunday. The closest possible time that he can meet with me is on Monday. I reported this to our EIC, and moved the story for the following week.
5:00 PM
I got a text message from Ma’am Remulta asking me regarding some corrections on the article that I wrote. To have the corrections personally explained to me, I dropped by the office of Katilingban to meet with Ma’am Elsa and Ma’am Rose.
April 24, 2009
3:00-5:00 PM
We had our weekly consultation with Sir Rey. Everything went well and our stories were uploaded on the website that same day.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
I do not know if this is actually a skill. But I personally feel that this is an important thing that I learned during the week, PATIENCE- Patience to wait for people you need for your stories considering that each second counts. While waiting, I had to make use of my time for other things that will help me in doing my other task. Also, there were times that I almost lost hope and thought that I will not be able to finish a story. Apprehension was always there. But at times that I really do not know what to do anymore; I immediately consult it with our EIC. However, as much as I can still find ways and means even up to the last second, I really strive for myself and think of other solutions and WAIT for what is going to happen next.
Another thing is PERSISTENCE. Some people will actually treat you like someone who can wait forever for their decision. It is also important that you explain yourself very well so they would understand your situation. Just like what happened when Ma’am Remulta wanted to move the interview the next day, I insisted that we pursue it that day. But of course, I did it in a very nice manner and explained myself. I also did the same thing for the other article. Everyday, I follow-up my interview with Sarita Hernandez, through her secretary, and really insist to insert our appointment in her week’s schedule. I know she is very busy but of course, I will not be able to talk to her if I just remain stagnant.
And lastly, organization and making use of technology. Since we were supposed to submit two articles for this week, it is important that we make use of our time very wisely. I really had to plan the things that I will do and organize my daily schedule. Telephone calls and communication through mobile and e-mail help a lot. There are instances that I need not go to an office to personally inquire or set an appointment, but just follow it-up through a phone call. This is what I actually did when I scheduled an appointment with Engr. Dela Cruz of the general Services Division. I may always inquire through the telephone and just drop a formal communication in case that they really require it, just like the office of the City Tourism. It was also an easy thing to exchange messages with Ma’am Remulta through the phone, mobile and e-mail.
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I personally feel bad for not being able to finish the two story assignments for this week. I felt that I tried everything that I can to get in touch with the people that I need for the stories. But all of them are really not available and there is a time constraint that makes it difficult.
Then I thought that I am still new in the business. Normally, they would not just give their attention to someone who is new in the business in a very tight schedule. And so I have to wait, wait and wait if they cannot really spare even thirty minutes of their time to me.
Regarding the other story, I did not have any problem except that it is a very sensitive subject matter because it concerns children who are victims of human trafficking. Ma’am Remulta was very much concerned on how the story will be written and oftentimes reminded me not to discuss the cases of the children and not to mention the location of the center. She even gave me some pamphlets and brochures that can help me in making the story. There are many policies, that she is really careful and responsible about the children’s welfare. First hand, she told me that I should not include photos of the children to keep their identities confidential from the public. That was very clear to me and so I took photos of the center’s façade, the children’s artworks and I got the logo of the center. However, after discussing with Ma’am Claire, the psychologist, when we went out of the room, there were four girls who were dancing in the living room and they we’re really having a good time. Ma’am Claire said that I can take some pictures with the girls. Upon hearing this, the four them were so excited and started fixing themselves and rushed into somewhere that they can pose. I was very mindful of how these girls would feel and so I asked them if they really want to take pictures. And they were really excited and Ma’am Claire was even happy that the girls were mingling with an outsider. All the while, I thought it was ok and the girls even asked me if they can have copies of their pictures and so I promised that I’ll come back and give them their personal copies of their photos.
I was very happy when I left the center. Hearing the stories of those girls, having the chance to mingle with them and seeing their smiles, really touched my heart. However, the following day, I received a text message from Ma’am Remulta and she sounded like I was someone who cannot keep promises. I took photos of the girls, yes, but I knew it was not for press release. I just avoided hurting the feelings of the girls and I thought it was ok because Ma’am Claire was there during the picture taking. However, we settled the issue and that night, I sent her a copy of the story for counterchecking.
I actually finished writing my weekly report in the morning of April 23. However, some things happened later that day so I decided to add some things on my report. It was 5 o’clock in the afternoon when I got a text message from Ma’am Remulta. She was asking me to contact the director of Katilingban, Ma’am Elsa, for some corrections on the write-up. When I called-up at the office of Katilingban, they asked me to go to the center for the revisions on the article.
When I arrived home, I immediately made the revisions and sent it to Ma’am Remulta. Right at that moment, I did follow-up revisions through SMS that she sent me. Then, finally she said that before having the article published on the net, Ma’am Elsa should check the article first.
With all of these things, I thought to myself that things happen unexpectedly. People you need are not just there ready to talk to you all the time. Some stories have to undergo several screenings before it gets published due to policies and protection of the people involved in the stories. However, as the writer of the story, it is always my right to defend my story and as much as possible not allow other people to interfere with my writing style. Censorship is one thing that I am really trying to avoid as much as possible. Especially the experience that I had with the Tanglaw Buhay story, I really tried to defend how I wrote the story and explained that it is not a press release for the center. But of course, as a beginner, I had to build rapport with people that I will still be encountering in the future. So, everything was said and done in a very polite manner.
April 20, 2009
9:19 AM
New story assignments were given to us for this week. I have two assigned stories to write, one is on Tanglaw Buhay Center and the other is a short feature on the city’s public parks, beaches and other recreational spots. The assignments were sent to us through e-mail along with brief descriptions. Then I thought of how to contact offices and people that I need for these stories.
2:00-3:30 PM
I sent a letter of appointment to Ma’am Marcelina Carpizo, point person for Tanglaw story, at her office in CPD-WMSU. Unfortunately, she is in Thailand until next week. Instead, Kit Berik, the one who received the letter, forwarded me to Rosevie Remulta. It was raining hard that time and so I decided to go home and make phone calls to follow-up all appointment interviews.
It took me four call attempts before I finally got the chance to talk to Ma’am Remulta because she was out of the office. We agreed to have the interview the following day and exchanged numbers to confirm the schedule.
With the numbers I got from the directory, I called up the city tourism office to inquire how I can possibly make an appointment with Sarita Hernandez, the city tourism officer. I was instructed to pass through the mayor’s office before having access with the tourism office.
7:30-8:00 pm
Ma’am Remulta asked me to send the guide questions for the interview beforehand so she can prepare the necessary information. So, I sent it to her-email address and made the letter for tourism office at the same time.
9:00-11:30
In preparation for the short feature on the city’s recreational spots, I read some online information about the benefits of recreation and some information on the city’s tourist spots. I also prelisted the public beaches, parks, pools and aviary that I know here in the city.
April 21, 2009
10:00 AM
I was bringing along with me the letter of approval for the mayor, so I can meet with the city tourism officer. I dropped it to the office of the secretary to the mayor and I was asked to follow-up the communication the following day.
While waiting for Remulta’s confirmation of the schedule, I checked out some online information about child-trafficking. Then she finally confirmed that we’ll have it at three o’clock in the afternoon.
2:30-5:00 PM
I went to the center at around 2:30 because Ma’am Remulta was quite in a hurry and even wanted to move the interview the next day. So, we made some rushed arrangements and had it earlier. Luckily, the resident psychologist, Claire Miranda, was also at the center that time and so I had the chance to talk to her and get some necessary information from her.
5:00-6:30
I made the transcription necessary information from the recorded interview and ran down my notes to outline my story.
April 22, 2009
10:30-12:30 noon
I wrote and finished the story on Tanglaw Buhay during this time and decided to go on with the other article. I talked to Ma’am Sarita Hernandez earlier than this time, through phone call, and she told me how busy the office is right now. She gave no assurance about the schedule of the interview and just said the she’ll get back to me as soon as her schedule gets fixed.
1:30 PM
I tried to contact the office of the city’s general services but i was really having problem the phone unit that I was using. All the while, I thought something is wrong with the line or the office’s number has already changed. Instead, I tried to look for other information in the web to check the functions and responsibilities of the office.
8:00 PM
As promised, I sent a copy of the article to Ma’am Remulta for counter checking.
April 23, 2009
10:00 AM
Again, I tried to look for Engr. Dela Cruz who is in charge of the office of the general services and luckily, I was able to connect through a different number. It was a good thing that I don’t have to pass through the mayor’s office before they can give me some information that I need. However, he said that the office is really busy this week in preparation for “Dia de Caling” on Sunday. The closest possible time that he can meet with me is on Monday. I reported this to our EIC, and moved the story for the following week.
5:00 PM
I got a text message from Ma’am Remulta asking me regarding some corrections on the article that I wrote. To have the corrections personally explained to me, I dropped by the office of Katilingban to meet with Ma’am Elsa and Ma’am Rose.
April 24, 2009
3:00-5:00 PM
We had our weekly consultation with Sir Rey. Everything went well and our stories were uploaded on the website that same day.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
I do not know if this is actually a skill. But I personally feel that this is an important thing that I learned during the week, PATIENCE- Patience to wait for people you need for your stories considering that each second counts. While waiting, I had to make use of my time for other things that will help me in doing my other task. Also, there were times that I almost lost hope and thought that I will not be able to finish a story. Apprehension was always there. But at times that I really do not know what to do anymore; I immediately consult it with our EIC. However, as much as I can still find ways and means even up to the last second, I really strive for myself and think of other solutions and WAIT for what is going to happen next.
Another thing is PERSISTENCE. Some people will actually treat you like someone who can wait forever for their decision. It is also important that you explain yourself very well so they would understand your situation. Just like what happened when Ma’am Remulta wanted to move the interview the next day, I insisted that we pursue it that day. But of course, I did it in a very nice manner and explained myself. I also did the same thing for the other article. Everyday, I follow-up my interview with Sarita Hernandez, through her secretary, and really insist to insert our appointment in her week’s schedule. I know she is very busy but of course, I will not be able to talk to her if I just remain stagnant.
And lastly, organization and making use of technology. Since we were supposed to submit two articles for this week, it is important that we make use of our time very wisely. I really had to plan the things that I will do and organize my daily schedule. Telephone calls and communication through mobile and e-mail help a lot. There are instances that I need not go to an office to personally inquire or set an appointment, but just follow it-up through a phone call. This is what I actually did when I scheduled an appointment with Engr. Dela Cruz of the general Services Division. I may always inquire through the telephone and just drop a formal communication in case that they really require it, just like the office of the City Tourism. It was also an easy thing to exchange messages with Ma’am Remulta through the phone, mobile and e-mail.
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I personally feel bad for not being able to finish the two story assignments for this week. I felt that I tried everything that I can to get in touch with the people that I need for the stories. But all of them are really not available and there is a time constraint that makes it difficult.
Then I thought that I am still new in the business. Normally, they would not just give their attention to someone who is new in the business in a very tight schedule. And so I have to wait, wait and wait if they cannot really spare even thirty minutes of their time to me.
Regarding the other story, I did not have any problem except that it is a very sensitive subject matter because it concerns children who are victims of human trafficking. Ma’am Remulta was very much concerned on how the story will be written and oftentimes reminded me not to discuss the cases of the children and not to mention the location of the center. She even gave me some pamphlets and brochures that can help me in making the story. There are many policies, that she is really careful and responsible about the children’s welfare. First hand, she told me that I should not include photos of the children to keep their identities confidential from the public. That was very clear to me and so I took photos of the center’s façade, the children’s artworks and I got the logo of the center. However, after discussing with Ma’am Claire, the psychologist, when we went out of the room, there were four girls who were dancing in the living room and they we’re really having a good time. Ma’am Claire said that I can take some pictures with the girls. Upon hearing this, the four them were so excited and started fixing themselves and rushed into somewhere that they can pose. I was very mindful of how these girls would feel and so I asked them if they really want to take pictures. And they were really excited and Ma’am Claire was even happy that the girls were mingling with an outsider. All the while, I thought it was ok and the girls even asked me if they can have copies of their pictures and so I promised that I’ll come back and give them their personal copies of their photos.
I was very happy when I left the center. Hearing the stories of those girls, having the chance to mingle with them and seeing their smiles, really touched my heart. However, the following day, I received a text message from Ma’am Remulta and she sounded like I was someone who cannot keep promises. I took photos of the girls, yes, but I knew it was not for press release. I just avoided hurting the feelings of the girls and I thought it was ok because Ma’am Claire was there during the picture taking. However, we settled the issue and that night, I sent her a copy of the story for counterchecking.
I actually finished writing my weekly report in the morning of April 23. However, some things happened later that day so I decided to add some things on my report. It was 5 o’clock in the afternoon when I got a text message from Ma’am Remulta. She was asking me to contact the director of Katilingban, Ma’am Elsa, for some corrections on the write-up. When I called-up at the office of Katilingban, they asked me to go to the center for the revisions on the article.
When I arrived home, I immediately made the revisions and sent it to Ma’am Remulta. Right at that moment, I did follow-up revisions through SMS that she sent me. Then, finally she said that before having the article published on the net, Ma’am Elsa should check the article first.
With all of these things, I thought to myself that things happen unexpectedly. People you need are not just there ready to talk to you all the time. Some stories have to undergo several screenings before it gets published due to policies and protection of the people involved in the stories. However, as the writer of the story, it is always my right to defend my story and as much as possible not allow other people to interfere with my writing style. Censorship is one thing that I am really trying to avoid as much as possible. Especially the experience that I had with the Tanglaw Buhay story, I really tried to defend how I wrote the story and explained that it is not a press release for the center. But of course, as a beginner, I had to build rapport with people that I will still be encountering in the future. So, everything was said and done in a very polite manner.
Ampong: Internship Goals
In my 120-150 hours of practical training in print journalism, there are a lot things that I want to accomplish along the journey. One would be to have a network of connection within the company that I am working in order to build a pool of contacts that would be useful even after my internship. I believe this goal will serve as a longterm and continouos goal. I would like to have friends among my co-interns from different schools.
Second, I would like to gain an experience in professional print journalism to explore and test my capabilities. More so to enhance my skills in writing and photojournalism because it would very useful for me in the future for I might change plans in what I want to accomplish after grad.uation. A competetive skill in writing and photography would help me a lot in gaining experience after graduation. I would also want to work with professionals in the particular area that I will be assigned to so that my professionalism will be tested and develop. Also, I would not be confined in one media outfit only. This would also help me know more about the media, its perks and blues. At the of my internship and upon meeting and getting to know more people, I would like to develop longer patience for people who might get to my nerves because when you look at it, we would all be contributing to how each other’s internship. Along with having to longer my patience, i will also strive to be a co-worker who is easy to work with. I would like to have friends from my work place for my ability to work with other people will be honed and for friendshps to be built across the distance. Lastly, to sum this all up, I would like to have a fruitful internship not only manifested by my internship grade but something that glows inside me telling that i did have a blast.
Second, I would like to gain an experience in professional print journalism to explore and test my capabilities. More so to enhance my skills in writing and photojournalism because it would very useful for me in the future for I might change plans in what I want to accomplish after grad.uation. A competetive skill in writing and photography would help me a lot in gaining experience after graduation. I would also want to work with professionals in the particular area that I will be assigned to so that my professionalism will be tested and develop. Also, I would not be confined in one media outfit only. This would also help me know more about the media, its perks and blues. At the of my internship and upon meeting and getting to know more people, I would like to develop longer patience for people who might get to my nerves because when you look at it, we would all be contributing to how each other’s internship. Along with having to longer my patience, i will also strive to be a co-worker who is easy to work with. I would like to have friends from my work place for my ability to work with other people will be honed and for friendshps to be built across the distance. Lastly, to sum this all up, I would like to have a fruitful internship not only manifested by my internship grade but something that glows inside me telling that i did have a blast.
Ampong: Week #2 at Manila Times
List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
Monday, April 13. Maila and I went to Cavite City, Cavite to visit the DTC or Dynamic Teen Company, newly awarded as a CNN Hero. Maila will be doing the article and I will take the photos of the interviewee and the Karitons that they will be using for their weekly outreach activities. I took pictures of the karitons and Kuya Ef- the founder of the DTC. I went home tired and happy.
Tuesday, April 14. We went to Pampanga at the Basa Air Base to cover the helicopter drill of Filipino and American soldiers who are part of the Balikatan. At first I felt weird and anxious about it. There were very few girls there and then we have to take photos of military men. When the helicopter landed, I felt like I’ll be blown away. It felt like, “SO this is it. This is how it feels to witness a drill of the Balikatan exercise between U.S. and Philippine forces.” I felt ecstatic. I was so eager to take pictures yet I also felt incompetent there. Everybody around me were holding their DSLR with lenses that look like a saucer plate. I really have to get near the soldiers so that I can get a shot. We stayed there until around 4:30 pm, we reached Manila proper around 9 in the evening.
Wednesday, April 15. I was tasked to go to Manila Peninsula to cover the Rotary meeting with Mayor Freddie Tinga of Taguig City as their guest speaker. He spoke to the rotary officials about success in achieving goals using the City of Taguig, the progressive city of Taguig. After that, I submitted my photos with caption. The following day, my photo got published. I was really relieved.
Thursday, April 16. My photo from yesterday’s assignment at the Manila Pen got published! It was Josh who actually told me. When I reached the Manila Police District, I went straight off to the car to grab a copy of that day’s issue. And when I finally saw it at page A2 I was just very relieved and happy that I finally got published. One requirement done!
Saturday, April 18. We went to Cavite City again to take photos of the DTC doing their actual outreach activity. When I finally how it really was, I had nothing but genuine and great admiration to those teens. It was hard to imagine they had to do it every week at four different areas every out reach activity.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
Basically, the things that I learned was that in taking a photo of a particular person, one should be able to make the composition of the photo focus or working for that person.
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I am just a bit worried that I have not checked on how many hours have I already spent for my OJT. Especially that I spend at least 8 hours everyday working day schedule with my department. I log in and out every time though.
Monday, April 13. Maila and I went to Cavite City, Cavite to visit the DTC or Dynamic Teen Company, newly awarded as a CNN Hero. Maila will be doing the article and I will take the photos of the interviewee and the Karitons that they will be using for their weekly outreach activities. I took pictures of the karitons and Kuya Ef- the founder of the DTC. I went home tired and happy.
Tuesday, April 14. We went to Pampanga at the Basa Air Base to cover the helicopter drill of Filipino and American soldiers who are part of the Balikatan. At first I felt weird and anxious about it. There were very few girls there and then we have to take photos of military men. When the helicopter landed, I felt like I’ll be blown away. It felt like, “SO this is it. This is how it feels to witness a drill of the Balikatan exercise between U.S. and Philippine forces.” I felt ecstatic. I was so eager to take pictures yet I also felt incompetent there. Everybody around me were holding their DSLR with lenses that look like a saucer plate. I really have to get near the soldiers so that I can get a shot. We stayed there until around 4:30 pm, we reached Manila proper around 9 in the evening.
Wednesday, April 15. I was tasked to go to Manila Peninsula to cover the Rotary meeting with Mayor Freddie Tinga of Taguig City as their guest speaker. He spoke to the rotary officials about success in achieving goals using the City of Taguig, the progressive city of Taguig. After that, I submitted my photos with caption. The following day, my photo got published. I was really relieved.
Thursday, April 16. My photo from yesterday’s assignment at the Manila Pen got published! It was Josh who actually told me. When I reached the Manila Police District, I went straight off to the car to grab a copy of that day’s issue. And when I finally saw it at page A2 I was just very relieved and happy that I finally got published. One requirement done!
Saturday, April 18. We went to Cavite City again to take photos of the DTC doing their actual outreach activity. When I finally how it really was, I had nothing but genuine and great admiration to those teens. It was hard to imagine they had to do it every week at four different areas every out reach activity.
Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
Basically, the things that I learned was that in taking a photo of a particular person, one should be able to make the composition of the photo focus or working for that person.
Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I am just a bit worried that I have not checked on how many hours have I already spent for my OJT. Especially that I spend at least 8 hours everyday working day schedule with my department. I log in and out every time though.
Barba: Week #2 at Fleishman-Hillard
A. List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
• HBC Corporate Social Responsibility concepts and strategies – We are assigned to draft a corporate social responsibility or an advocacy campaign based on HBC’s desired theme: “GIVING EVERYOVE THE RIGHT TO BE BEAUTIFUL”
• Feature Story for Bellagio Square: “Bellagio, an urban oasis with a rich display of life’s pleasure in the heart of Malate” – I was given an assignment to write an article (press release) regarding our client- Bellagio square of being an urban oasis in the heart of Malate. This job is quite hard considering the fact that I only have few references to this and I’ve never been here. Also, one of my references is just photos from our clients. Nevertheless, I was given a good remark for this and I was able to passed this in due time.
• Press Release for Bellagio Square: “Alfresco dining at Bellagio Square featuring a grand selection of local and international cuisines” – Same with my previous writing assignment, this is quite hard since I don’t have ample references and background regarding the topic given. Nonetheless, I also passed this in due time.
• Man-on-the-street interview for HBC project (field work) – This is a pretty tough job for me and my partner, JP. We walked through the streets of Makati even if it is raining to look for interviewees using a digital camera. This is for our audio visual project to be presented to our client: HBC. Also, even I was terribly wet and exhausted since I was wearing a corporate outfit when we went to the field, I really enjoyed this experience and I tend to know a lot of people.
• Man-on-the-street Audio Visual Presentation for HBC Project – After the survey and the interview, we did an AVP for our presentation. At first, I had no idea where to start since I’m not your “techy” girl. But on the other hand, we were given a brief for the software we will be using. Also, my partner JP did the technical job and I was just contributing for the concepts of the AVP. Then, after doing this, fortunately I we received excellent remarks from our bosses. Accordingly, we did a good job. I was so happy and proud, it was a worthwhile job.
• Acronym for HBC Advocacy – (Cheers!) My suggested concept was chosen to be presented to our client. What I gave for the acronym is ( Handog ay Beauty sa Community) I chose this since our demograph our from class to E. In line with this are the concepts and media planning we did. It will be presented to our client.
• Survey for HBC Awareness (field work) – This is in line with our HBC project, before doing the interviews, we first did the survey for public’s awareness about the company. This is also a tiring job but definitely, its worthwhile.
• Daily Monitoring for Etihad airways, Avaya, Genzyme, Bellagio Square, ES&S and Delta airways – This is our constant job every morning. We read all the nine broadsheets every morning and look for our client’s pick-up and for theur competitors as well.
• Monthly report for Etihad airways – I was assigned to update the monthly report for our international client- Etihad. I do the sorting of all the clippings and I’m completing the monthly report.
• ES&S/AMA Project (media planning and strategy) – This is about voter outreach program. Accordinlgy, this account is confidential so I cannot really talk more on this. But for my job, we were assigned to draft a strategy plan for ES&S. This is more on concept making using tri-media and the traditional medium. In addition, this project digs more on theme-making for the bidding of polls automation this coming election. This is a pretty challenging job since this is a big account.
• Summary report for HBC Survey polls (Statistics) – It includes math. I did the summary report of our surveys in HBc and I also made charts and graphs to be used in the presentation. It was quite exhausting since it involves math.
• Media calls (updates for media invitation) – I always do the phone calls for updating our invitations for our media events and press conferences. This is fun since they tend to know me as a real employee of FH. Haha.
• Events organizing for Bellagio Square media event – Since Bellagio Square, our local client will have a media event, we are assigned to invite the press and the media people for this. Also, we were tasked to layout an online card for the invitation. Fortunately, it went out fine. I applied my desktop publishing skills here.
• Research – I did a lot of research. Especially about our clients, pitchs, their competitors, market, background and related information. Also, the bulk of my research work are about our endorsers and celebrities. Almost everyday I receive a research assignment and fortunately our general manager is always giving me good remarks for my job.
• Sorting, Scanning and Printing – I am also entitled to do these office works.
• Research and AVP for Synvisc One – This is a product of our client genzyme and we are tasked to research about a bone disease and make an AVP, look for songs and include photos for the AVP.
• Writing – we are doing a lot of writing aside from the press releases like re-writing bio-datas and studies for our presentations.
• Cash deposit – My partner and I went to bank to deposit cash. At first I was terribly nervous since it is really a big amount but then we did it well so it is ok.
• Computing accounts for released advertisements and articles – they taught me to compute these accounts and it involved math but on the other hand, I learned it easily.
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
• Communication skills specifically in writing and people skills. For writing, I am always tasked to draft articles, concepts, strategies and feature stories. That is why I feel that this communication skill I have improved a lot because it is being applied in real work and they are being accepted and use. It becomes an income generating work. For my people skills, since I did a lot of surveys and interviews and we are representing a distinguished agency, I learned how to act like a real professional by answering questions and talking to people, especially those whose in the same industry.
• My management skill is being utilized and it improved a lot. Since we are few in the agency, multitasking is like breathing to us. So I need to adopt it to survive, Proper time management, deadlines and organization of thoughts are key to survive the pressure in the office.
• I experienced the life of being real PR practitioner. Its definitely flexible and wide-ranging. You need to master all the skills to pitch a client. You need to be quick and precise. Time is your enemy so you can’t afford to waste any moment.
• I learned to follow instructions carefully.
• I learned how to deposit cash on the bank. It is panicky at first but on the other hand, it is good to know how these things works.
• I learned how to compute released advertisements and articles.
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
No regrets! Definitely. I learned a lot and most especially, I experienced the real feel of the PR industry. I enjoyed a lot and everything I did was so exciting. We are treated as professionals, we did the works of the professionals and I feel like a real professional. I am still speechless but all in all, this is a once in a lifetime experience that I will used for the rest of my days.
• HBC Corporate Social Responsibility concepts and strategies – We are assigned to draft a corporate social responsibility or an advocacy campaign based on HBC’s desired theme: “GIVING EVERYOVE THE RIGHT TO BE BEAUTIFUL”
• Feature Story for Bellagio Square: “Bellagio, an urban oasis with a rich display of life’s pleasure in the heart of Malate” – I was given an assignment to write an article (press release) regarding our client- Bellagio square of being an urban oasis in the heart of Malate. This job is quite hard considering the fact that I only have few references to this and I’ve never been here. Also, one of my references is just photos from our clients. Nevertheless, I was given a good remark for this and I was able to passed this in due time.
• Press Release for Bellagio Square: “Alfresco dining at Bellagio Square featuring a grand selection of local and international cuisines” – Same with my previous writing assignment, this is quite hard since I don’t have ample references and background regarding the topic given. Nonetheless, I also passed this in due time.
• Man-on-the-street interview for HBC project (field work) – This is a pretty tough job for me and my partner, JP. We walked through the streets of Makati even if it is raining to look for interviewees using a digital camera. This is for our audio visual project to be presented to our client: HBC. Also, even I was terribly wet and exhausted since I was wearing a corporate outfit when we went to the field, I really enjoyed this experience and I tend to know a lot of people.
• Man-on-the-street Audio Visual Presentation for HBC Project – After the survey and the interview, we did an AVP for our presentation. At first, I had no idea where to start since I’m not your “techy” girl. But on the other hand, we were given a brief for the software we will be using. Also, my partner JP did the technical job and I was just contributing for the concepts of the AVP. Then, after doing this, fortunately I we received excellent remarks from our bosses. Accordingly, we did a good job. I was so happy and proud, it was a worthwhile job.
• Acronym for HBC Advocacy – (Cheers!) My suggested concept was chosen to be presented to our client. What I gave for the acronym is ( Handog ay Beauty sa Community) I chose this since our demograph our from class to E. In line with this are the concepts and media planning we did. It will be presented to our client.
• Survey for HBC Awareness (field work) – This is in line with our HBC project, before doing the interviews, we first did the survey for public’s awareness about the company. This is also a tiring job but definitely, its worthwhile.
• Daily Monitoring for Etihad airways, Avaya, Genzyme, Bellagio Square, ES&S and Delta airways – This is our constant job every morning. We read all the nine broadsheets every morning and look for our client’s pick-up and for theur competitors as well.
• Monthly report for Etihad airways – I was assigned to update the monthly report for our international client- Etihad. I do the sorting of all the clippings and I’m completing the monthly report.
• ES&S/AMA Project (media planning and strategy) – This is about voter outreach program. Accordinlgy, this account is confidential so I cannot really talk more on this. But for my job, we were assigned to draft a strategy plan for ES&S. This is more on concept making using tri-media and the traditional medium. In addition, this project digs more on theme-making for the bidding of polls automation this coming election. This is a pretty challenging job since this is a big account.
• Summary report for HBC Survey polls (Statistics) – It includes math. I did the summary report of our surveys in HBc and I also made charts and graphs to be used in the presentation. It was quite exhausting since it involves math.
• Media calls (updates for media invitation) – I always do the phone calls for updating our invitations for our media events and press conferences. This is fun since they tend to know me as a real employee of FH. Haha.
• Events organizing for Bellagio Square media event – Since Bellagio Square, our local client will have a media event, we are assigned to invite the press and the media people for this. Also, we were tasked to layout an online card for the invitation. Fortunately, it went out fine. I applied my desktop publishing skills here.
• Research – I did a lot of research. Especially about our clients, pitchs, their competitors, market, background and related information. Also, the bulk of my research work are about our endorsers and celebrities. Almost everyday I receive a research assignment and fortunately our general manager is always giving me good remarks for my job.
• Sorting, Scanning and Printing – I am also entitled to do these office works.
• Research and AVP for Synvisc One – This is a product of our client genzyme and we are tasked to research about a bone disease and make an AVP, look for songs and include photos for the AVP.
• Writing – we are doing a lot of writing aside from the press releases like re-writing bio-datas and studies for our presentations.
• Cash deposit – My partner and I went to bank to deposit cash. At first I was terribly nervous since it is really a big amount but then we did it well so it is ok.
• Computing accounts for released advertisements and articles – they taught me to compute these accounts and it involved math but on the other hand, I learned it easily.
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
• Communication skills specifically in writing and people skills. For writing, I am always tasked to draft articles, concepts, strategies and feature stories. That is why I feel that this communication skill I have improved a lot because it is being applied in real work and they are being accepted and use. It becomes an income generating work. For my people skills, since I did a lot of surveys and interviews and we are representing a distinguished agency, I learned how to act like a real professional by answering questions and talking to people, especially those whose in the same industry.
• My management skill is being utilized and it improved a lot. Since we are few in the agency, multitasking is like breathing to us. So I need to adopt it to survive, Proper time management, deadlines and organization of thoughts are key to survive the pressure in the office.
• I experienced the life of being real PR practitioner. Its definitely flexible and wide-ranging. You need to master all the skills to pitch a client. You need to be quick and precise. Time is your enemy so you can’t afford to waste any moment.
• I learned to follow instructions carefully.
• I learned how to deposit cash on the bank. It is panicky at first but on the other hand, it is good to know how these things works.
• I learned how to compute released advertisements and articles.
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
No regrets! Definitely. I learned a lot and most especially, I experienced the real feel of the PR industry. I enjoyed a lot and everything I did was so exciting. We are treated as professionals, we did the works of the professionals and I feel like a real professional. I am still speechless but all in all, this is a once in a lifetime experience that I will used for the rest of my days.
Aguilo: Week #2 at Fleishman
A. List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
1. Daily Monitoring Report- reading the newspapers everyday, looking for press releases about Etihad Airways and its competitor.
2. Weekly Monitoring Report- Monitoring the internet for press releases about Avaya and its competitor.
3. Concepts for HBC campaign,” Giving everyone the right to be beautiful- I gave ideas on how to promote HBC to sustain the awareness level of HBC as a store brands and its tatak exclusibo service, tatak exclusibo promo and tatak exclusibo brands and customer service.
4. Possible themes for the campaign and suggestions-Our client, Election Systems & Software or ES&S ( provider of hardware and software for voting, counting in elections) has partnered with AMA (the computer school) to pitch for the automation project of the 2010 elections.
They need us to put together quickly a program and costings for a voter outreach program targeted to the 50 million Filipino voters in 80,000 polling places around the Philippines. They are looking at using mail, email, website, TVCs, tri-media campaign and printed collaterals and the AMA schools nationwide to disseminate the information.
Objective of the information campaign is to persuade Filipino voters that automated or computerized elections will ensure that their real votes get counted.
5. Welcome remarks for Avaya Country Director- Avaya Phils. Country Manager Ed Doctolero will give the welcome remarks at the press briefing for IP Office on April 24. I did and speech outline discussing how IP Office is helping small companies become more efficient in these challenging times, the current economic context: global recession, slowdown in business.
6. Inviting the press for Avaya IP Office launch this Friday- We sent invitations to editors of Magazine, newspapers, blogs to attend the event this Friday. We are doing the follow up via phone everyday.
7. Research in reduction in IT spending among clients in the country
8. acronyms for HBC advocacy program which will reflect HBC slogan that "everyone has the right to be beautiful".
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
I’m learning a lot about public relations especially organizing a press conference. I feel so happy that I am talking to editors everyday.
I have improved my communication skills, confidence, and self-steam because I’m meeting a lot of people everyday.
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I’m starting to love reading since I started working here. Even if I am out of the office, I read newspapers, billboards, magazines. This is my greatest improvement because Fleishman requires us to read the newspapers everyday to monitor our clients; I’m getting use to it, I read even no one is telling me.
1. Daily Monitoring Report- reading the newspapers everyday, looking for press releases about Etihad Airways and its competitor.
2. Weekly Monitoring Report- Monitoring the internet for press releases about Avaya and its competitor.
3. Concepts for HBC campaign,” Giving everyone the right to be beautiful- I gave ideas on how to promote HBC to sustain the awareness level of HBC as a store brands and its tatak exclusibo service, tatak exclusibo promo and tatak exclusibo brands and customer service.
4. Possible themes for the campaign and suggestions-Our client, Election Systems & Software or ES&S ( provider of hardware and software for voting, counting in elections) has partnered with AMA (the computer school) to pitch for the automation project of the 2010 elections.
They need us to put together quickly a program and costings for a voter outreach program targeted to the 50 million Filipino voters in 80,000 polling places around the Philippines. They are looking at using mail, email, website, TVCs, tri-media campaign and printed collaterals and the AMA schools nationwide to disseminate the information.
Objective of the information campaign is to persuade Filipino voters that automated or computerized elections will ensure that their real votes get counted.
5. Welcome remarks for Avaya Country Director- Avaya Phils. Country Manager Ed Doctolero will give the welcome remarks at the press briefing for IP Office on April 24. I did and speech outline discussing how IP Office is helping small companies become more efficient in these challenging times, the current economic context: global recession, slowdown in business.
6. Inviting the press for Avaya IP Office launch this Friday- We sent invitations to editors of Magazine, newspapers, blogs to attend the event this Friday. We are doing the follow up via phone everyday.
7. Research in reduction in IT spending among clients in the country
8. acronyms for HBC advocacy program which will reflect HBC slogan that "everyone has the right to be beautiful".
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
I’m learning a lot about public relations especially organizing a press conference. I feel so happy that I am talking to editors everyday.
I have improved my communication skills, confidence, and self-steam because I’m meeting a lot of people everyday.
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I’m starting to love reading since I started working here. Even if I am out of the office, I read newspapers, billboards, magazines. This is my greatest improvement because Fleishman requires us to read the newspapers everyday to monitor our clients; I’m getting use to it, I read even no one is telling me.
Querubin: Week #1 at Peace Works
April 14, 2009
We have been called to the office at ten in the morning for an orientation regarding peace journalism and what Peace Works is all about. We were given tips on how to write as peace journalists and how to look for angles to ponder on when covering events.
We were also given the topics to cover that are to be submitted Thursday afternoon for editing. I am tasked to write about the Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge 2009 that matched my being a volunteer for the event. This engaged greater pressure on me although I am grateful that I can still continue my volunteer services while complying with the demands of the OJT.
The meeting ended just in time for the school bus ride bound to Tulungatung, the settlement area for the GK. Volunteers from Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) will be conducting the second day of volunteer work for Paraisong Pambata. As we arrived at the site, heavy rain poured and prevented the children to maximize the space because of limited covered tents.
In the mean time, I asked Youth for Christ volunteers that immersed in the area as to whom I can interview for the article and was later referred to Kuya Fredney Gales, GK Child and Youth Development Operations Head. Fortunately he heeded my need and answered every question with clarity. I was also referred to Kuya Ken Reston for the details of the whole gathering. In his absence, I was sent to meet Ate Mika Hippol that could have provided the needed information but only at a time later then our scheduled stay in the area. It was then agreed that she provide the documents the next day.
After the interview, my fellow student volunteers and I found that the activity for the kids are handled well by the grade school teachers from ADZU and so we went to the actual building site and extended our help to the build team of ADZU under heavy rain, muddy paths and slippery steps.
The rain stopped in time for the group to go back to town and for me to transcribe the recorded interview at home.
As the day ended I enhanced my skill on dealing with people more specifically on making use of “contacts” in order to get the job done. I used to be the type of person who knows a lot of people but never see them as prospect sources of information. But today, as I was striving to look for interviewees for the article, the presence of friends from other schools has helped me get the interview with ease.
My first day as an intern was good. I felt that I have accomplished something and I am looking forward to more interviews.
April 15
On the second day of interviews I arrived at the site at about 4 in the afternoon via school bus that brought the performers for Ateneo Night in Tulungatung.
Right after stepping down the vehicle, I went to the main stage and looked for Ate Mikka for the information I was not able to obtain the day before. She was then anxious to see me that gave the impression she did not print the papers I requested and turned out, she really did not bring the papers I need. And so she asked for my email address and told me that she will just mail me the document when she goes home.
I thanked her and went off to start the interviews with various volunteers and beneficiaries. Ate Joy Adduru, GK1MB Coordinator was my first interviewee for the afternoon that clarified the terms on the LGU’s support and volunteer teams present. Next interviewee was Arthur Molina from Team Basilan emphasizing on his reasons for attending the event. Kenneth Vincent P. Beldua from Team Beng Climaco followed. He gave his sentiments about the GK Challenge.
After the three interviews, I looked for beneficiaries in the area. I went to a group of ladies and all were hesitant to take the interview. A number of them declined while others walked away in sight of me. Finally getting grasp of one who did not ran away, Ate Alma Cabasag invited me in her home and there we had the interview. After thanking her, I went on with my search for other volunteers.
I talked to Christian Columbres, YFC Regional Head for North Eastern Mindanao and then interviewed Rodrigo S. Pagotaisidro, Head of the Housing and Land Management Division of the city.
In search of other beneficiaries, two kids Daisy Rose Cenasio, 10, and Shelviza Marie Patangan, 7, participants of Paraisong Pambata captured my attention as they were playing along the corners of the main stage. I asked them what they think of the event and they answered me shyly. I saw ate Mikka and reminded her of the document and she went on her way.
Just before the performance night program I was able to conduct one more interview with Arman Nuñez of Team Vinta Majulah, SFC Singapore. He then clarified the common fears of volunteers not from Zamboanga with regards to the peace and order situation in the city.
Afterwards, I tended to the needs of the program as stage manager. I arrived home at about 11:30 in the evening, checked my mail and still no sign of Ate Mikka’s documents. I then, spent the next four hours transcribing all the interviews of the day.
This day was a blast. I was caught between being an intern and a volunteer for GK but amidst all the trouble and pressure I think I have accomplished my task for the day. I have sufficient interviews and did all tasks assigned to me for the night’s program.
On this day, I have learned to give greater importance to maximizing the time. I am not really a big fan of time management but the pressure of meeting the deadline has boosted that time-conscious self in me. I did not expect I can conduct that number of interviews in just one afternoon but the pressure in writing a presentable and on-time article does wonders.
April 16
The school bus I was in arrived at Tulungatung almost mid afternoon. I went to look for additional stories from beneficiaries and volunteers and was able to interview Kuya Tinzar Titing, GK beneficiary and Ate Violet Lucasi, ADMU volunteer. Both of them were very open in sharing their stories and I did not have a difficult time asking questions.
After the interviews, I looked for Ate Mikka and asked for the papers through USB and was finally able to get the details I needed. I also took more pictures of the construction work in the area.
After achieving all needed information I waited for the school bus that apparently could not accommodate more passengers and so I hitched a ride with the Brent team that took a while to leave.
I arrived in town at sunset, took a ride home and finished my article.
Today, I practiced the idea “always get more information than you need”. I had extra interviews to choose from for the article and so this gave me more freedom to shape the story.
Be prepared and expect for the worst. I learned this today because of Ate Mikka. I asked for information on a Tuesday and took hold of it on a Thursday. In addition to the delay is the quite incomplete and inaccurate information being given. I should have just thought of presenting her my USB the first time I asked her for the documents. When I opened the file, the information present where all those that I already gathered from other sources and what I really needed from her was not indicated.
April 17
I went to the site at about 1:30 in the afternoon to take pictures of the last day of the activity of GK1MB Challenge 2009.
The culminating program started at about 6:30 in the evening with songs from the GK1MB Band led by Kuya Fredney Gales followed by testimonials from Full time GK workers and volunteers and representatives of GK Challenge Sulu.
Video presentations of both GK Zamboanga and Sulu were shown in the big screen with additional testimonials from Muslim brothers and sisters that became full time GK volunteers.
The highlight of the event was the presence of Rimermaya that played their all-time favorite hits.
I already passed my article and going to the site was more of playing my volunteer role but while I was there, I did not miss the chance of taking more photos of the event. This decision served me right because some of the photos I took this day were chosen for posting.
My first week as an intern in Peace Works helped me grow more as a socially concerned citizen. Hearing the heart-warming stories of my interviewees shed a brighter light upon my idea of heroism and helping those in need.
I finally grasped the idea that everyone has a story to tell and am happy to be a medium for these people’s stories to be heard. I feel honored to be part of this great cause.
I am loving Mass Communication more and more.
We have been called to the office at ten in the morning for an orientation regarding peace journalism and what Peace Works is all about. We were given tips on how to write as peace journalists and how to look for angles to ponder on when covering events.
We were also given the topics to cover that are to be submitted Thursday afternoon for editing. I am tasked to write about the Gawad Kalinga Bayani Challenge 2009 that matched my being a volunteer for the event. This engaged greater pressure on me although I am grateful that I can still continue my volunteer services while complying with the demands of the OJT.
The meeting ended just in time for the school bus ride bound to Tulungatung, the settlement area for the GK. Volunteers from Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) will be conducting the second day of volunteer work for Paraisong Pambata. As we arrived at the site, heavy rain poured and prevented the children to maximize the space because of limited covered tents.
In the mean time, I asked Youth for Christ volunteers that immersed in the area as to whom I can interview for the article and was later referred to Kuya Fredney Gales, GK Child and Youth Development Operations Head. Fortunately he heeded my need and answered every question with clarity. I was also referred to Kuya Ken Reston for the details of the whole gathering. In his absence, I was sent to meet Ate Mika Hippol that could have provided the needed information but only at a time later then our scheduled stay in the area. It was then agreed that she provide the documents the next day.
After the interview, my fellow student volunteers and I found that the activity for the kids are handled well by the grade school teachers from ADZU and so we went to the actual building site and extended our help to the build team of ADZU under heavy rain, muddy paths and slippery steps.
The rain stopped in time for the group to go back to town and for me to transcribe the recorded interview at home.
As the day ended I enhanced my skill on dealing with people more specifically on making use of “contacts” in order to get the job done. I used to be the type of person who knows a lot of people but never see them as prospect sources of information. But today, as I was striving to look for interviewees for the article, the presence of friends from other schools has helped me get the interview with ease.
My first day as an intern was good. I felt that I have accomplished something and I am looking forward to more interviews.
April 15
On the second day of interviews I arrived at the site at about 4 in the afternoon via school bus that brought the performers for Ateneo Night in Tulungatung.
Right after stepping down the vehicle, I went to the main stage and looked for Ate Mikka for the information I was not able to obtain the day before. She was then anxious to see me that gave the impression she did not print the papers I requested and turned out, she really did not bring the papers I need. And so she asked for my email address and told me that she will just mail me the document when she goes home.
I thanked her and went off to start the interviews with various volunteers and beneficiaries. Ate Joy Adduru, GK1MB Coordinator was my first interviewee for the afternoon that clarified the terms on the LGU’s support and volunteer teams present. Next interviewee was Arthur Molina from Team Basilan emphasizing on his reasons for attending the event. Kenneth Vincent P. Beldua from Team Beng Climaco followed. He gave his sentiments about the GK Challenge.
After the three interviews, I looked for beneficiaries in the area. I went to a group of ladies and all were hesitant to take the interview. A number of them declined while others walked away in sight of me. Finally getting grasp of one who did not ran away, Ate Alma Cabasag invited me in her home and there we had the interview. After thanking her, I went on with my search for other volunteers.
I talked to Christian Columbres, YFC Regional Head for North Eastern Mindanao and then interviewed Rodrigo S. Pagotaisidro, Head of the Housing and Land Management Division of the city.
In search of other beneficiaries, two kids Daisy Rose Cenasio, 10, and Shelviza Marie Patangan, 7, participants of Paraisong Pambata captured my attention as they were playing along the corners of the main stage. I asked them what they think of the event and they answered me shyly. I saw ate Mikka and reminded her of the document and she went on her way.
Just before the performance night program I was able to conduct one more interview with Arman Nuñez of Team Vinta Majulah, SFC Singapore. He then clarified the common fears of volunteers not from Zamboanga with regards to the peace and order situation in the city.
Afterwards, I tended to the needs of the program as stage manager. I arrived home at about 11:30 in the evening, checked my mail and still no sign of Ate Mikka’s documents. I then, spent the next four hours transcribing all the interviews of the day.
This day was a blast. I was caught between being an intern and a volunteer for GK but amidst all the trouble and pressure I think I have accomplished my task for the day. I have sufficient interviews and did all tasks assigned to me for the night’s program.
On this day, I have learned to give greater importance to maximizing the time. I am not really a big fan of time management but the pressure of meeting the deadline has boosted that time-conscious self in me. I did not expect I can conduct that number of interviews in just one afternoon but the pressure in writing a presentable and on-time article does wonders.
April 16
The school bus I was in arrived at Tulungatung almost mid afternoon. I went to look for additional stories from beneficiaries and volunteers and was able to interview Kuya Tinzar Titing, GK beneficiary and Ate Violet Lucasi, ADMU volunteer. Both of them were very open in sharing their stories and I did not have a difficult time asking questions.
After the interviews, I looked for Ate Mikka and asked for the papers through USB and was finally able to get the details I needed. I also took more pictures of the construction work in the area.
After achieving all needed information I waited for the school bus that apparently could not accommodate more passengers and so I hitched a ride with the Brent team that took a while to leave.
I arrived in town at sunset, took a ride home and finished my article.
Today, I practiced the idea “always get more information than you need”. I had extra interviews to choose from for the article and so this gave me more freedom to shape the story.
Be prepared and expect for the worst. I learned this today because of Ate Mikka. I asked for information on a Tuesday and took hold of it on a Thursday. In addition to the delay is the quite incomplete and inaccurate information being given. I should have just thought of presenting her my USB the first time I asked her for the documents. When I opened the file, the information present where all those that I already gathered from other sources and what I really needed from her was not indicated.
April 17
I went to the site at about 1:30 in the afternoon to take pictures of the last day of the activity of GK1MB Challenge 2009.
The culminating program started at about 6:30 in the evening with songs from the GK1MB Band led by Kuya Fredney Gales followed by testimonials from Full time GK workers and volunteers and representatives of GK Challenge Sulu.
Video presentations of both GK Zamboanga and Sulu were shown in the big screen with additional testimonials from Muslim brothers and sisters that became full time GK volunteers.
The highlight of the event was the presence of Rimermaya that played their all-time favorite hits.
I already passed my article and going to the site was more of playing my volunteer role but while I was there, I did not miss the chance of taking more photos of the event. This decision served me right because some of the photos I took this day were chosen for posting.
My first week as an intern in Peace Works helped me grow more as a socially concerned citizen. Hearing the heart-warming stories of my interviewees shed a brighter light upon my idea of heroism and helping those in need.
I finally grasped the idea that everyone has a story to tell and am happy to be a medium for these people’s stories to be heard. I feel honored to be part of this great cause.
I am loving Mass Communication more and more.
Miranda: Week #2 at Manila Times
A. List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
• April 13 was a task-to-remember day. After the holy week break, I was back to interviewing heads of the Pasay, Makati and Quezon City Health Offices. I went to Pasay City Health Office for updates of my news-feature story about the food contamination incident of Sen. Nikki Coseteng. Mr. Rosendo Cabanayan, Sanitation Inspector V gave me the details of what they did for inspection of the restaurant. He willingly shared information and even gave me a copy of their findings. That was a help for information gathering. Immediately after the Health Office, I went to Pancake House, Pasay Branch to get their side of the story. I asked around for jeepneys which head to that food establishment. I arrived around noon time only to find out that the restaurant manager was not around so I asked for their landline number. I went home (in Cubao, Quezon City) for lunch break.
• My next stop was Makati City Hall. I rode the MRT heading to Guadalupe. I was able to reach the city hall by jeepney. Their city hall is approximately a 27-storey building. I used the elevator to reach the 7th floor where the city health office is located. I had to still look good with my hair blown away by the wind felt when riding jeepneys. I talked to the secretary who told me to write a formal letter signed by my editor before I could talk to the head since she was having meetings and conferences.
There is always this first-time experience. After the Makati City Hall Office, my next stop was supposedly Quezon City Hall. I rode in a jeepney which I got assured of that I would be in MRT station in Guadalupe after I asked the driver to get me there. He headed to the opposite direction. He dropped me in an LRT station in Pedro Gil which I think was already in Manila. I asked around for direction help. People are just willing to help if one approaches them nicely. That was one thing I learned during my no-sense-of-direction experiences. So, I rode the LRT from Pedro Gil and got off at EDSA where I had to ride in an MRT which heads to Araneta Center-Cubao station. The time I spared for Quezon City Hall was all consumed up by travelling around. It was already late 5 p.m. so offices were already closed. I decided to continue it the next day. It was all in a day’s work.
• April 14 was not a very good day for me. With all those stress of getting lost and making my way around these huge cities, I got sick. I had rashes all over my skin and fever on this day. My stomach got upset and I disgorged every now and then. My titas here decided to let me have my rest. I informed my editor and supervisor.
• April 15 was interviewing time again. I felt well already though my tummy was still upset. I went to Quezon City Hall and was told to come back some other time for the head was in a conference meeting. I reported to the office in the afternoon. I drafted a letter for Makati City Hall. Sir Dante “Klink” Ang, the editor, taught me how to write an endorsement letter for offices. After the final hardcopy of the edited letter, he decided to do away with Quezon and Makati City Health Offices. He might think that the information I got from Pasay and Manila offices is already enough. I went back to my proofreading work until evening.
• In the evening, I received a text message from the PR Person of Sen. Nikki Coseteng. He told me that the Pasay City Health Office is closing the Pancake Restaurant. I reacted because it was just on Monday that I knew that the health office is still observing seven-working days before they decide to have the restaurant closed. There may be discrepancies of the information I gathered and the information relayed to me by the PR Person. The PR Person told me that it was even the head of the city health who told them that they would have it closed the moment they received the formal complaint filed by the senator on Tuesday, April 14. I texted my editor for an update.
• The following day, April 16, I called the Pasay City Health Office and confirmed what I learned. The head told me that they did not say it and they are still observing the seven working days they cited to the restaurant before further actions would be done. He invited me to pass by the office to see the formal complaint. I went back to the office in the afternoon. It was a suggestion of Sen. Nikki Coseteng to have the restaurant closed for a month to ensure sanitation and sterilizing of their equipment and the entire outlet. So I updated my story and passed it to my editor. I hope it gets published. I hope. I am very willing to do anything more for my story. I am willing to go the extra mile.
• Last week’s headlines were mostly about Ted Failon and his wife’s incident. April 16 in the evening, Sir Klink gave me another assignment. I like it when I am being sent to the outside world. He told me to go to Pegasus Club in Quezon Avenue, Quezon City on the 17th. This is a club for executives, elite and well-known personalities. He wanted me to verify if indeed Ted Failon has been going to that club. He wanted me to get background information which he thinks could be a help to the story. He wanted me to interview the manager, and some guest entertainers who happened to meet Ted in that club. He told me to have somebody to accompany me and gave me the photographer and The Manila Times driver. Personally, I think this is a very interesting task. I accepted it with enthusiasm.
• April 17 was the day. Mr. Rene Dilan, the photographer, though we knew we would not take any pictures, the kind driver, Mr. Greg, and I went to Pegasus Club at 7 p.m. I was having mixed emotions for this was the first time that I would be in a club like this. I did not know what to see, what to hear, what to know. My mama reminded me of precautionary measures in case whatever happens. I am just grateful for this experience. So, we arrived there. Everything just went normally. I looked for the manager, introduced ourselves, stayed in the lounge and verified everything. The senior manager, Josie, who has been working in the club for three years told us that they never had Ted Failon as a customer. She shared that most media men do not go there for they may be afraid of media publicity. There. Everything went fine and I was not able to see what I expected to see. We went home.
• April 18 was a Saturday. I went to the office. Some of the editors were not present during this day for this serves as their break. I did the editing of lifestyle section for Sunday issue. On Sundays, the lifestyle section has a magazine. I did all the reading and editing. That was for the day.
• April 19, there is not much work. I still did the editing for lifestyle and sports. I got to ask the writers and editors around if the changes I made were already ok for them. That was all in a day’s work.
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
• Last week was all about mobility and mental work. It has been a week of stamina and strong will. I learned that it does not have to be a “try”, it should be either “to do” or “not to do” choice. Nothing will be lost in me if I do go to offices and inquire. If I get rejected, I ask another source. If I get entertained, I make use of what I gather. I learned that asking is a very essential tool to gaining information. Asking by actually going to the source, asking by phone or text, and asking by using the technology. I used to be shy when asking questions that are bothering in me. I tend to keep them inside and lose the chance of asking forever. Now that I have been doing a lot of interview which requires so much asking, nothing is really embarrassing and wrong in asking when one has the itch to know everything.
• I got a compliment from Manila City Health Office Sanitary Inspector. He said that my approach is so kind that he was very willing to share the information with me. He added that my listening skills are very attentive and I seem to understand everything that he was saying. I am not really sure, but I know even before, that interviewing is a balance. One has to know when to talk and when to listen. It is inquiring that does not purely depend on the guide questions one has prepared. It is listening through the heart and talking from the mind.
• I also learned that some people try to manipulate amateurs to get what they want. I am referring to the PR person of the former senator who texted me saying that he requested a copy of my write-up regarding the food contamination incident. What I know is that I do not have a responsibility of letting him see what I wrote before it gets published for he is not my editor. He waits until it gets the chance to be published. I learned to say “no.” Do you think I just did the right thing?
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
• I just have to be strong physically, mentally and emotionally. There are times when my mind and heart are very willing to cross borders and finish everything before the sun sets. It is only that my physical endurance can no longer contain the pressure and has to rest. What happened to me this week was a reminder that I should slow down too. Health is still wealth no matter how cliché it may sound. For whatever I do, wherever I go, whoever I meet, if I get sick, everything is useless. I just have to relax and do things one step at a time. Everything will fall in its rightful places. As of now, I still hope that my story gets published. I still have to ask my editor this afternoon for updates.
• April 13 was a task-to-remember day. After the holy week break, I was back to interviewing heads of the Pasay, Makati and Quezon City Health Offices. I went to Pasay City Health Office for updates of my news-feature story about the food contamination incident of Sen. Nikki Coseteng. Mr. Rosendo Cabanayan, Sanitation Inspector V gave me the details of what they did for inspection of the restaurant. He willingly shared information and even gave me a copy of their findings. That was a help for information gathering. Immediately after the Health Office, I went to Pancake House, Pasay Branch to get their side of the story. I asked around for jeepneys which head to that food establishment. I arrived around noon time only to find out that the restaurant manager was not around so I asked for their landline number. I went home (in Cubao, Quezon City) for lunch break.
• My next stop was Makati City Hall. I rode the MRT heading to Guadalupe. I was able to reach the city hall by jeepney. Their city hall is approximately a 27-storey building. I used the elevator to reach the 7th floor where the city health office is located. I had to still look good with my hair blown away by the wind felt when riding jeepneys. I talked to the secretary who told me to write a formal letter signed by my editor before I could talk to the head since she was having meetings and conferences.
There is always this first-time experience. After the Makati City Hall Office, my next stop was supposedly Quezon City Hall. I rode in a jeepney which I got assured of that I would be in MRT station in Guadalupe after I asked the driver to get me there. He headed to the opposite direction. He dropped me in an LRT station in Pedro Gil which I think was already in Manila. I asked around for direction help. People are just willing to help if one approaches them nicely. That was one thing I learned during my no-sense-of-direction experiences. So, I rode the LRT from Pedro Gil and got off at EDSA where I had to ride in an MRT which heads to Araneta Center-Cubao station. The time I spared for Quezon City Hall was all consumed up by travelling around. It was already late 5 p.m. so offices were already closed. I decided to continue it the next day. It was all in a day’s work.
• April 14 was not a very good day for me. With all those stress of getting lost and making my way around these huge cities, I got sick. I had rashes all over my skin and fever on this day. My stomach got upset and I disgorged every now and then. My titas here decided to let me have my rest. I informed my editor and supervisor.
• April 15 was interviewing time again. I felt well already though my tummy was still upset. I went to Quezon City Hall and was told to come back some other time for the head was in a conference meeting. I reported to the office in the afternoon. I drafted a letter for Makati City Hall. Sir Dante “Klink” Ang, the editor, taught me how to write an endorsement letter for offices. After the final hardcopy of the edited letter, he decided to do away with Quezon and Makati City Health Offices. He might think that the information I got from Pasay and Manila offices is already enough. I went back to my proofreading work until evening.
• In the evening, I received a text message from the PR Person of Sen. Nikki Coseteng. He told me that the Pasay City Health Office is closing the Pancake Restaurant. I reacted because it was just on Monday that I knew that the health office is still observing seven-working days before they decide to have the restaurant closed. There may be discrepancies of the information I gathered and the information relayed to me by the PR Person. The PR Person told me that it was even the head of the city health who told them that they would have it closed the moment they received the formal complaint filed by the senator on Tuesday, April 14. I texted my editor for an update.
• The following day, April 16, I called the Pasay City Health Office and confirmed what I learned. The head told me that they did not say it and they are still observing the seven working days they cited to the restaurant before further actions would be done. He invited me to pass by the office to see the formal complaint. I went back to the office in the afternoon. It was a suggestion of Sen. Nikki Coseteng to have the restaurant closed for a month to ensure sanitation and sterilizing of their equipment and the entire outlet. So I updated my story and passed it to my editor. I hope it gets published. I hope. I am very willing to do anything more for my story. I am willing to go the extra mile.
• Last week’s headlines were mostly about Ted Failon and his wife’s incident. April 16 in the evening, Sir Klink gave me another assignment. I like it when I am being sent to the outside world. He told me to go to Pegasus Club in Quezon Avenue, Quezon City on the 17th. This is a club for executives, elite and well-known personalities. He wanted me to verify if indeed Ted Failon has been going to that club. He wanted me to get background information which he thinks could be a help to the story. He wanted me to interview the manager, and some guest entertainers who happened to meet Ted in that club. He told me to have somebody to accompany me and gave me the photographer and The Manila Times driver. Personally, I think this is a very interesting task. I accepted it with enthusiasm.
• April 17 was the day. Mr. Rene Dilan, the photographer, though we knew we would not take any pictures, the kind driver, Mr. Greg, and I went to Pegasus Club at 7 p.m. I was having mixed emotions for this was the first time that I would be in a club like this. I did not know what to see, what to hear, what to know. My mama reminded me of precautionary measures in case whatever happens. I am just grateful for this experience. So, we arrived there. Everything just went normally. I looked for the manager, introduced ourselves, stayed in the lounge and verified everything. The senior manager, Josie, who has been working in the club for three years told us that they never had Ted Failon as a customer. She shared that most media men do not go there for they may be afraid of media publicity. There. Everything went fine and I was not able to see what I expected to see. We went home.
• April 18 was a Saturday. I went to the office. Some of the editors were not present during this day for this serves as their break. I did the editing of lifestyle section for Sunday issue. On Sundays, the lifestyle section has a magazine. I did all the reading and editing. That was for the day.
• April 19, there is not much work. I still did the editing for lifestyle and sports. I got to ask the writers and editors around if the changes I made were already ok for them. That was all in a day’s work.
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
• Last week was all about mobility and mental work. It has been a week of stamina and strong will. I learned that it does not have to be a “try”, it should be either “to do” or “not to do” choice. Nothing will be lost in me if I do go to offices and inquire. If I get rejected, I ask another source. If I get entertained, I make use of what I gather. I learned that asking is a very essential tool to gaining information. Asking by actually going to the source, asking by phone or text, and asking by using the technology. I used to be shy when asking questions that are bothering in me. I tend to keep them inside and lose the chance of asking forever. Now that I have been doing a lot of interview which requires so much asking, nothing is really embarrassing and wrong in asking when one has the itch to know everything.
• I got a compliment from Manila City Health Office Sanitary Inspector. He said that my approach is so kind that he was very willing to share the information with me. He added that my listening skills are very attentive and I seem to understand everything that he was saying. I am not really sure, but I know even before, that interviewing is a balance. One has to know when to talk and when to listen. It is inquiring that does not purely depend on the guide questions one has prepared. It is listening through the heart and talking from the mind.
• I also learned that some people try to manipulate amateurs to get what they want. I am referring to the PR person of the former senator who texted me saying that he requested a copy of my write-up regarding the food contamination incident. What I know is that I do not have a responsibility of letting him see what I wrote before it gets published for he is not my editor. He waits until it gets the chance to be published. I learned to say “no.” Do you think I just did the right thing?
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
• I just have to be strong physically, mentally and emotionally. There are times when my mind and heart are very willing to cross borders and finish everything before the sun sets. It is only that my physical endurance can no longer contain the pressure and has to rest. What happened to me this week was a reminder that I should slow down too. Health is still wealth no matter how cliché it may sound. For whatever I do, wherever I go, whoever I meet, if I get sick, everything is useless. I just have to relax and do things one step at a time. Everything will fall in its rightful places. As of now, I still hope that my story gets published. I still have to ask my editor this afternoon for updates.
Lim: Week #1 at Peace Works
“The worldwide economic recession brings an increasing number of unemployed individuals despite the growing population”. This is how I started my article on the livelihood program of the City Social welfare and Development (CSWD) office and indeed I experienced economic recession in doing this article, my first OJT article. Having the number six intern’s agreement on the internship contract that the intern will cover all travel, accomodation, and other expenses incurred for the internship and being a student who is definnitely unemployed, I experienced financial crisis as I had to go to different places to gather the informations considering the tricycle fare here in Zamboanga is quite expensive.
April 14, Tuesday, pass ten in the morning, we had an overview of what peaceworks is and how it works. Sir Darwin made it clear to us the difference of peace journalism from any other form of journalisms and that we are not only to talk of positive things as to portray peace in the vicinity. He went on refreshing our minds with the basic concepts, values of journalism which we learned during our basic journalism class. Then Sir Rey came in giving us our assigned articles. And so I spent the day asking on the places where I could go and gather the informations I need for my article.
Fiirst thing the following morning I went to Petite Barracks to look for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) office. I asked the sidewalk vendors until I arrived at my destination. From there, the guard told me that the people I need is out of town so he told me to go to the City Social welfare and Development (CSWD) Office located at the back of the City Health. At the CSWD office, the secretary told me to make an authorization letter before I can interview people in their office. Right away, I told Sir Rey about it via txt message and he told me to pick the letter at the peaceworks office in the afternoon. When I recieved the letter, Francel’s name was written instead of mine so I had to wait for Sir Rey. He then texted me to get the corrected letter the next day. I was hoping to get all the informations that day and even cancelled my Gawad Kalinga appoinment still, I failed. I had to wait for tomorrow. I was then worried. I don’t want to write articles the last minute.
Thursday, my article is to be submitted before the day ends. Early this morning, I picked up the letter and went to the CSWD office. I had to wait for the people in the office to arrive. To my disappointment, they told me to return next week since the person to approve the letter is not around. When I texted Sir Rey about it, he told me to reserve the article for next week and submit two articles instead, to catch up.
I didn’t like the idea of submitting late articles so I looked for ways and told the people that my article is due today. Then I had the chance to talk to their chief of welfare and development office, Uldarico S. Fabian, who told me to return at one in the afternoon. Fifteen minutes before 1pm, I was already at the CSWD office putting in mind my learning during my interview experiences in advanced journalism: Don’t keep your interviewee waiting; you are the one who is given the favor. I recalled being late in our interviews back then and I wouldn’t want it to happen again. I then waited for 30minutes before Sir Fabian arrived. I wanted to record our conversation but when I asked him if I could, he refused so I had to write as fast as I could. He wasn’t quite answering my questions but he was nice. He referred me to their field officer at Sta. Barbara, Carolina Angga, to help me find the beneficiaries of their program.
I was then starting to regain my hope of submitting my article on time but unfortunately, Mrs. Angga told me to return tomorrow. She had to finish other things accordingly, so she can’t bring me to their clients. All I could do then was to ask for the addresses of their clients and find those people on my own. She hesitated thinking that it would be dangerous for me to go alone. Still, I insisted so she just assured me that if ever I fail, I could still go to their office tomorrow. Indeed Mrs. Angga was right. I got lost. I experienced being scolded by the driver and asked various people in a place I am not familiar at all for persons I haven’t even seen once.
Worst comes to worst, I wasn’t able to submit my article on time and got depressed. My first article will be my boss’s first impression and I am not able to meet the deadline. Good thing, chocolates and donuts are there to comfort me and so does my sketch pad and pencil.
Life must go on. Even if I wasn’t able to meet the deadline of my article, I was determined to submit it as soon as possible. Friday morning, I called Mrs. Angga. She then told me she could bring me to their clients and so she did. The places we went were quite confusing, no wonder I got lost.
Finally, the informations and pictures I need are with me. I was able to submit the article a day after the deadline. Well, the optimists would say, “Better late than never”.
Throughout the task, I learned to be aggressive in a way yet, I know my limitations. I still kept in mind what our OJT orientation speakers told us; “always be courteous”. I was also able to apply the proper way of shaking hands which helped me portray a positive and respectful image as I interviewed different people and applied the interviewing skills that was taught to us. There are just some unfortunate instances that hinder me to finish my task on time and I guess I’ll have to do a way with it. Connections really matters.
April 14, Tuesday, pass ten in the morning, we had an overview of what peaceworks is and how it works. Sir Darwin made it clear to us the difference of peace journalism from any other form of journalisms and that we are not only to talk of positive things as to portray peace in the vicinity. He went on refreshing our minds with the basic concepts, values of journalism which we learned during our basic journalism class. Then Sir Rey came in giving us our assigned articles. And so I spent the day asking on the places where I could go and gather the informations I need for my article.
Fiirst thing the following morning I went to Petite Barracks to look for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) office. I asked the sidewalk vendors until I arrived at my destination. From there, the guard told me that the people I need is out of town so he told me to go to the City Social welfare and Development (CSWD) Office located at the back of the City Health. At the CSWD office, the secretary told me to make an authorization letter before I can interview people in their office. Right away, I told Sir Rey about it via txt message and he told me to pick the letter at the peaceworks office in the afternoon. When I recieved the letter, Francel’s name was written instead of mine so I had to wait for Sir Rey. He then texted me to get the corrected letter the next day. I was hoping to get all the informations that day and even cancelled my Gawad Kalinga appoinment still, I failed. I had to wait for tomorrow. I was then worried. I don’t want to write articles the last minute.
Thursday, my article is to be submitted before the day ends. Early this morning, I picked up the letter and went to the CSWD office. I had to wait for the people in the office to arrive. To my disappointment, they told me to return next week since the person to approve the letter is not around. When I texted Sir Rey about it, he told me to reserve the article for next week and submit two articles instead, to catch up.
I didn’t like the idea of submitting late articles so I looked for ways and told the people that my article is due today. Then I had the chance to talk to their chief of welfare and development office, Uldarico S. Fabian, who told me to return at one in the afternoon. Fifteen minutes before 1pm, I was already at the CSWD office putting in mind my learning during my interview experiences in advanced journalism: Don’t keep your interviewee waiting; you are the one who is given the favor. I recalled being late in our interviews back then and I wouldn’t want it to happen again. I then waited for 30minutes before Sir Fabian arrived. I wanted to record our conversation but when I asked him if I could, he refused so I had to write as fast as I could. He wasn’t quite answering my questions but he was nice. He referred me to their field officer at Sta. Barbara, Carolina Angga, to help me find the beneficiaries of their program.
I was then starting to regain my hope of submitting my article on time but unfortunately, Mrs. Angga told me to return tomorrow. She had to finish other things accordingly, so she can’t bring me to their clients. All I could do then was to ask for the addresses of their clients and find those people on my own. She hesitated thinking that it would be dangerous for me to go alone. Still, I insisted so she just assured me that if ever I fail, I could still go to their office tomorrow. Indeed Mrs. Angga was right. I got lost. I experienced being scolded by the driver and asked various people in a place I am not familiar at all for persons I haven’t even seen once.
Worst comes to worst, I wasn’t able to submit my article on time and got depressed. My first article will be my boss’s first impression and I am not able to meet the deadline. Good thing, chocolates and donuts are there to comfort me and so does my sketch pad and pencil.
Life must go on. Even if I wasn’t able to meet the deadline of my article, I was determined to submit it as soon as possible. Friday morning, I called Mrs. Angga. She then told me she could bring me to their clients and so she did. The places we went were quite confusing, no wonder I got lost.
Finally, the informations and pictures I need are with me. I was able to submit the article a day after the deadline. Well, the optimists would say, “Better late than never”.
Throughout the task, I learned to be aggressive in a way yet, I know my limitations. I still kept in mind what our OJT orientation speakers told us; “always be courteous”. I was also able to apply the proper way of shaking hands which helped me portray a positive and respectful image as I interviewed different people and applied the interviewing skills that was taught to us. There are just some unfortunate instances that hinder me to finish my task on time and I guess I’ll have to do a way with it. Connections really matters.
Lim: Internship Goals
News values, code of ethics, history, basic and advanced journalism, advertising, broadcast performance, feature writing are some of the things I learned within the four semesters of taking BS Mass Communication in Ateneo de Zamboanga University. Indeed I enjoyed every lesson despite the hardship of meeting the deadlines and requirements. Reminiscing those days, I feel the need of experiencing work with other people whom I don’t and I can’t simply treat as classmates or a close friend but as a co-worker in the competent world. I want to get a taste of life outside my comfort zone, the real world, life after graduation. This summer’s on–the-job training (OJT) will then give me such opportunity, hopefully.
In reading various web articles, I remember one article saying in broad terms, the goal of internship experience is to help students strengthen their professional philosophy and understanding of their chosen field. I certainly agree with it for it can only be achieved as one gets a close working relationship with an experienced professional, but more than that, I hope to increase my confidence through experiencing firsthand involvement. As my internship would go, I’d like to apply all my learning, my personal knowledge, my skills and know my strengths and weaknesses. Through the supervisory midterm and summative evaluations geared toward identifying strong areas of skill and expertise as well as those areas that may need to be enhanced or strengthened, I will be able to achieve so. But of course, establishing connections will be part of my goal for it will be very helpful and useful in the future.
Generally, I’d just like to get a preview of life after college to prepare myself and keep me from being culture shocked.
As my first OJT which is print will be in a magazine company, I would like to live by the standard of professional writing, knowing that journalism is a lifestyle. And since my OJT will be in a peace magazine, I would also want to learn how peace journalism really goes; I have been introduced on the basic forms and principles of journalisms and had a glimpse of peace journalism but I haven’t tried doing so. Furthermore, with the present security situation here in Zamboanga, I would like to see and learn how the magazine is still able to view things and inculcate the idea of peace. How and where they get the topics and information.
In reading various web articles, I remember one article saying in broad terms, the goal of internship experience is to help students strengthen their professional philosophy and understanding of their chosen field. I certainly agree with it for it can only be achieved as one gets a close working relationship with an experienced professional, but more than that, I hope to increase my confidence through experiencing firsthand involvement. As my internship would go, I’d like to apply all my learning, my personal knowledge, my skills and know my strengths and weaknesses. Through the supervisory midterm and summative evaluations geared toward identifying strong areas of skill and expertise as well as those areas that may need to be enhanced or strengthened, I will be able to achieve so. But of course, establishing connections will be part of my goal for it will be very helpful and useful in the future.
Generally, I’d just like to get a preview of life after college to prepare myself and keep me from being culture shocked.
As my first OJT which is print will be in a magazine company, I would like to live by the standard of professional writing, knowing that journalism is a lifestyle. And since my OJT will be in a peace magazine, I would also want to learn how peace journalism really goes; I have been introduced on the basic forms and principles of journalisms and had a glimpse of peace journalism but I haven’t tried doing so. Furthermore, with the present security situation here in Zamboanga, I would like to see and learn how the magazine is still able to view things and inculcate the idea of peace. How and where they get the topics and information.
Barredo: Internship Goals
There was a dream. There was a candid dream. It was a beautiful candid dream. And in that dream...there was me. It was a me dancing with the beautiful harmony of life’s life, of life’s vigour, of life’s splendid playlist. It was a me caressing the indefinable silhouette of life’s cherished memories—music.
In that dream, I am in my space at the desk in the office of the country’s number one music magazine—MYX. I am holding my favourite pen, scribbling notes about my favourite local band—Hale. A short talk with them just finished and I am about to review my write-up about them for the MYX Peeks. As I reread my work, I considered three most important points that I never forgot since my Basic Journalism class—topic’s worthiness, story’s context, and a good lead.
In that dream, I am standing in front of Chito Miranda, Parokya ni Edgar’s frontman. I am holding my recorder and I am having a great time interviewing him for the the 25 Things About segment of the magazine. Good thing I am not the starstruck-caught-off-guard kind of person so the conversation went smoothly. I still would not be able to believe that I have enough self-confidence so as not to stutter in front of him. I kept in mind the major things to be remembered during an interview—establish connection with the interviewee, prepare guide questions, arrive on time, and most importantly, say ‘thank you’.
In that dream, I am preparing the camera to take good pictures of Juris’ room. She is the vocalist of Make Your Momma Proud or MYMP, also my favourite band. I am awed by the tidiness of her room and her personal choice of color for her curtains and beddings. But I do not allow myself to be intimidated by these. While working with the professionals, I learn to stay focus with the subject, avoid camera errors, and learn to work with my camera.
In that dream, I am manoeuvring the mouse of the computer. It is late in the evening and I am still at the office. I am helping the layout artist with the raw arrangements of the magazine’s next issue. It is, indeed, a privilege to be able to contribute good ideas and fine inputs regarding the nest issue’s new look. Of course, I will not forget about the basics of lay-outing that will forever be treasured in my heart—relate texts and pictures, play with the elements, and of course, use only a maximum of three typefaces. This is actually one field where I can see myself in the future.
And then, I will wake-up with the music of sentimental symphonies. I will sit down at my bed and try to recall that dream. I will tell myself, “now…you’re awake,” and that everything will change. I will become the girl who trusts her capabilities and expands her limitations. I will become that adventurous girl geared up for the world beyond her comfort zone. I will become the girl, with that same simple dream, realizing the things written in her heart. I will be a Mass Communication graduate ready to take the world of media face to face. Where this dream will take that girl, it is still a mystery to be solved. For now, what I am clearly aware of is that they all began with a dream, a candid dream, a beautiful candid dream.
In that dream, I am in my space at the desk in the office of the country’s number one music magazine—MYX. I am holding my favourite pen, scribbling notes about my favourite local band—Hale. A short talk with them just finished and I am about to review my write-up about them for the MYX Peeks. As I reread my work, I considered three most important points that I never forgot since my Basic Journalism class—topic’s worthiness, story’s context, and a good lead.
In that dream, I am standing in front of Chito Miranda, Parokya ni Edgar’s frontman. I am holding my recorder and I am having a great time interviewing him for the the 25 Things About segment of the magazine. Good thing I am not the starstruck-caught-off-guard kind of person so the conversation went smoothly. I still would not be able to believe that I have enough self-confidence so as not to stutter in front of him. I kept in mind the major things to be remembered during an interview—establish connection with the interviewee, prepare guide questions, arrive on time, and most importantly, say ‘thank you’.
In that dream, I am preparing the camera to take good pictures of Juris’ room. She is the vocalist of Make Your Momma Proud or MYMP, also my favourite band. I am awed by the tidiness of her room and her personal choice of color for her curtains and beddings. But I do not allow myself to be intimidated by these. While working with the professionals, I learn to stay focus with the subject, avoid camera errors, and learn to work with my camera.
In that dream, I am manoeuvring the mouse of the computer. It is late in the evening and I am still at the office. I am helping the layout artist with the raw arrangements of the magazine’s next issue. It is, indeed, a privilege to be able to contribute good ideas and fine inputs regarding the nest issue’s new look. Of course, I will not forget about the basics of lay-outing that will forever be treasured in my heart—relate texts and pictures, play with the elements, and of course, use only a maximum of three typefaces. This is actually one field where I can see myself in the future.
And then, I will wake-up with the music of sentimental symphonies. I will sit down at my bed and try to recall that dream. I will tell myself, “now…you’re awake,” and that everything will change. I will become the girl who trusts her capabilities and expands her limitations. I will become that adventurous girl geared up for the world beyond her comfort zone. I will become the girl, with that same simple dream, realizing the things written in her heart. I will be a Mass Communication graduate ready to take the world of media face to face. Where this dream will take that girl, it is still a mystery to be solved. For now, what I am clearly aware of is that they all began with a dream, a candid dream, a beautiful candid dream.
Ampong: Week #1 at Manila Times
A. List down all the tasks that you performed during this period. Describe each in detail.
1. Saturday, April 4, 2009. My first day in work was a blast. One, my photojournalism boss told me the night before that we will meet at seven o’clock in the morning at PHILCOA, Quezon City which is quite far from where I stay and a place I have never been too. I felt very anxious by that fact, one, I don’t know where and what to ride for me to get there. My boss who kind enough to direct me, gave me instructions on how to get there. I was nervous the whole time I was on the bus going to QC, I always the bus conductor to drop me off at PHILCOA to which he would always say, “Yes miss, I’ll tell you when we’re already there.” in Tagalog. I finally arrived at PHICOA after a 35-45 minute bus ride from Pasay to QC. When I got to Jollibee Philcoa, ( I could not find my boss, I’ve waited for more or less 15 to 20 minutes for him to arrive.) Branded as always the late comer, I felt kind of proud of myself.hehe When my boss and Ms. Marlene ( a PR personnel from the COALITION, NGO) arrived, we had breakfast and then went to San Fernando, Rizal where we covered the allegedly soon to be dumpsite of Metro Manila. I was tasked to take a few photos of the site. I also interviewed the head of COALITION San Fernando, Rizal. What was alarming in the situation is that, residents along the area do not know that it is a garbage dumpsite that is built 5-15 meters away from their houses. When we got to the office, I wrote the captions of the photos that were taken from the dump site.
2. Monday, April 6, 2009. My second day of work was oh well, tiring and interesting. We went to Cutud, Pampanga where the “Sinakulo” takes place. It was very hot. The transportation service’s air conditioner was not used. We met the man who has himself crucified every Holy Week. He showed us the crosses that they used and the nails that he uses every year. Mang Rene, has himself crucified for 24 years now. I do not know how to feel that time, I sensed that they were only doing it just because it has become a tradition, in Cutud, it has become a tourist spot during the Holy Week. I was tasked to take photos to which I also wrote captions for of the women and children doing the “Pasyon”, where they sing the way of the cross. What was kind of confusing about it was the text is in Filipino yet I could not understand a word they sing. Anyway, I’ve learned that there are really things in this world that even if us mankind do not have concrete things to back it up would continue to be cherished simply because we believe it is something that will reward us in the future or cover up the not-so-good things we did in the past.
3. Tuesday, April 7, 2009. My third and final work day of the week. I had quite a tour along Makati, Pasay and then Manila cities that day. My boss, told us that we should go directly to Manila Police District- West along U.N. Avenue. To kick start our day we went to Makati City around 9 am in the morning to cover the rally of militant groups in front of the Dutch Embassy. It was enlightening to witness and record the event especially that their call is very specific; they want the Dutch Embassy to remove Jose Ma. Sison, a Filipino Communist Leader from the list of the world’s terrorists because of the repercussions or consequences that may arise from the said action.
After that, we went to Allegro Center in Makati for a press conference called by the Makati Jeepney Operators and Driver’s Association. It was very interesting and quite over the board that the MJODA Chairman will torch his jeepney which accordingly is from his Grandfather if Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo would not grant their loan request to fund the drivers, purchase of LPG-powered public utility jeepneys, which is said to be less environmentally harmful than gasoline.
After lunch at the MJODA presscon we went to Makati City Jail to hopefully cover a Holy Week event there but there was none. And also in Manila City Jail located at Tondo, but there was none.
Off we went Lawton, Manila fronting the Main Post Office Building to cover the rally of militant groups and people from the Southern Tagalog who condemned Pres. Arroyo stating in the banners and streamers, “Imperyalismong US at Gloria kalbaryo ng mamamayan”. The group supposedly go to the US embassy yet they didn’t reach thaf because the Police officers headed by Col. Rosales barred the group to proceed. they only reached the National Library area, and that was where they had their program explaining why they believe that any agreement between U.S. and the Philippines is never meant to be of help to the people rather these agreements have turned to be detrimental to the Filipinos.
We followed the same rally up to Morayta only there were already a good number of 300-400 militants there.
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
1. I learned what and how to write photo captions, I learned that in order for me to do so correctly, I should be very involved in gathering the right pieces of information.
2. I learned that it is important to set aside any mood of being shy or fear of rejection, not only that it will impede me in getting what I want when I need it, it will also hinder my chances of meeting new people which is one of my primordial goals in this internship.
3. I learned to talk lightly to people; I am not really close to. This pertains to my co-interns who are very nice to which I usually am off because I don’t get along with people I have not really known for months. I’ve learned to clear that wall because I need to. Like they say, a fun experience is meaningless without a comrade.
4. I learned that in taking photos, I should be fast. Like during a rally, I cannot and should not join the militants because if I do, I can not take good photos. I should always be ahead of them. I practiced my running skills whether in slip-ons or rubber shoes.
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I figured that I still have not published one article or photo for my first week, that is why I am a bit apprehensive about it. I have been to places that I only here from TV and witnessed events that I only see in TV too like real rallies, we don’t have in Zamboanga. I have met a few people from different media outfits and publications, and so far they are real nice. And for all these, I am very grateful to this opportunity.
1. Saturday, April 4, 2009. My first day in work was a blast. One, my photojournalism boss told me the night before that we will meet at seven o’clock in the morning at PHILCOA, Quezon City which is quite far from where I stay and a place I have never been too. I felt very anxious by that fact, one, I don’t know where and what to ride for me to get there. My boss who kind enough to direct me, gave me instructions on how to get there. I was nervous the whole time I was on the bus going to QC, I always the bus conductor to drop me off at PHILCOA to which he would always say, “Yes miss, I’ll tell you when we’re already there.” in Tagalog. I finally arrived at PHICOA after a 35-45 minute bus ride from Pasay to QC. When I got to Jollibee Philcoa, ( I could not find my boss, I’ve waited for more or less 15 to 20 minutes for him to arrive.) Branded as always the late comer, I felt kind of proud of myself.hehe When my boss and Ms. Marlene ( a PR personnel from the COALITION, NGO) arrived, we had breakfast and then went to San Fernando, Rizal where we covered the allegedly soon to be dumpsite of Metro Manila. I was tasked to take a few photos of the site. I also interviewed the head of COALITION San Fernando, Rizal. What was alarming in the situation is that, residents along the area do not know that it is a garbage dumpsite that is built 5-15 meters away from their houses. When we got to the office, I wrote the captions of the photos that were taken from the dump site.
2. Monday, April 6, 2009. My second day of work was oh well, tiring and interesting. We went to Cutud, Pampanga where the “Sinakulo” takes place. It was very hot. The transportation service’s air conditioner was not used. We met the man who has himself crucified every Holy Week. He showed us the crosses that they used and the nails that he uses every year. Mang Rene, has himself crucified for 24 years now. I do not know how to feel that time, I sensed that they were only doing it just because it has become a tradition, in Cutud, it has become a tourist spot during the Holy Week. I was tasked to take photos to which I also wrote captions for of the women and children doing the “Pasyon”, where they sing the way of the cross. What was kind of confusing about it was the text is in Filipino yet I could not understand a word they sing. Anyway, I’ve learned that there are really things in this world that even if us mankind do not have concrete things to back it up would continue to be cherished simply because we believe it is something that will reward us in the future or cover up the not-so-good things we did in the past.
3. Tuesday, April 7, 2009. My third and final work day of the week. I had quite a tour along Makati, Pasay and then Manila cities that day. My boss, told us that we should go directly to Manila Police District- West along U.N. Avenue. To kick start our day we went to Makati City around 9 am in the morning to cover the rally of militant groups in front of the Dutch Embassy. It was enlightening to witness and record the event especially that their call is very specific; they want the Dutch Embassy to remove Jose Ma. Sison, a Filipino Communist Leader from the list of the world’s terrorists because of the repercussions or consequences that may arise from the said action.
After that, we went to Allegro Center in Makati for a press conference called by the Makati Jeepney Operators and Driver’s Association. It was very interesting and quite over the board that the MJODA Chairman will torch his jeepney which accordingly is from his Grandfather if Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo would not grant their loan request to fund the drivers, purchase of LPG-powered public utility jeepneys, which is said to be less environmentally harmful than gasoline.
After lunch at the MJODA presscon we went to Makati City Jail to hopefully cover a Holy Week event there but there was none. And also in Manila City Jail located at Tondo, but there was none.
Off we went Lawton, Manila fronting the Main Post Office Building to cover the rally of militant groups and people from the Southern Tagalog who condemned Pres. Arroyo stating in the banners and streamers, “Imperyalismong US at Gloria kalbaryo ng mamamayan”. The group supposedly go to the US embassy yet they didn’t reach thaf because the Police officers headed by Col. Rosales barred the group to proceed. they only reached the National Library area, and that was where they had their program explaining why they believe that any agreement between U.S. and the Philippines is never meant to be of help to the people rather these agreements have turned to be detrimental to the Filipinos.
We followed the same rally up to Morayta only there were already a good number of 300-400 militants there.
B. Describe new skills you learned, or skills you improved upon as a result of these tasks. Be specific.
1. I learned what and how to write photo captions, I learned that in order for me to do so correctly, I should be very involved in gathering the right pieces of information.
2. I learned that it is important to set aside any mood of being shy or fear of rejection, not only that it will impede me in getting what I want when I need it, it will also hinder my chances of meeting new people which is one of my primordial goals in this internship.
3. I learned to talk lightly to people; I am not really close to. This pertains to my co-interns who are very nice to which I usually am off because I don’t get along with people I have not really known for months. I’ve learned to clear that wall because I need to. Like they say, a fun experience is meaningless without a comrade.
4. I learned that in taking photos, I should be fast. Like during a rally, I cannot and should not join the militants because if I do, I can not take good photos. I should always be ahead of them. I practiced my running skills whether in slip-ons or rubber shoes.
C. Other thoughts regarding the OJT experience.
I figured that I still have not published one article or photo for my first week, that is why I am a bit apprehensive about it. I have been to places that I only here from TV and witnessed events that I only see in TV too like real rallies, we don’t have in Zamboanga. I have met a few people from different media outfits and publications, and so far they are real nice. And for all these, I am very grateful to this opportunity.
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