The Department of Educational Communication (DEC), CDC launched its monograph titled “Development Communication in Emergency Remote Teaching during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges, Adaptation, and Reimagination” on December 21 via Zoom.
Authored by Asst. Prof. Romel A. Daya, Asst. Prof. John Mervin L. Embate, Asst. Prof. Rovil A. Espiritu, and Mr. Elijah Jesse M. Pine, the monograph discusses the challenges faced and adaptation strategies implemented during the pandemic by Devcom educators across the Philippines. It also highlights ways forward for Devcom education in the context of a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world.
The online version of the monograph may be accessed through this sign-up form: bit.ly/48qKh3x This research output is part of DEC’s project on documenting remote learning and teaching experiences in devcom during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event is part of DEC’s activities for CDC’s 25th anniversary celebration.
Asst. Prof. Aldo Gavril T. Lim of the Department of Science Communication (DSC) delivered a talk titled “First you lurk, then you datafy: Using Twitter insights to understand vulnerable groups”during the second session of a two-part hybrid seminar held in the College of Development Communication (CDC) Lecture Room 1 and via Zoom on 4 December 2023.
This was part of DSC’s SCICOMversation: Navigating Complexity Through Meaningful Conversations about Science, an annual seminar series featuring speakers with trailblazing work in science communication for development. It was held this year in partnership with Science Communicators Philippines Inc. (SciCommPH).
In his presentation, Asst. Prof. Lim focused on the use of lurking as a research strategy in understanding the ‘datafied world’ of Filipino men living with HIV.
He mentioned that there has been ample literature that shows how people with health conditions use X (formerly known as Twitter) to build online networks. “Because they are online, they build online networks. And because they are online they live datafied lives,” he explained.
He called X the ‘datafied world’ of Filipino men living with HIV as the users themselves leave footprints of their online activity. More importantly, he explained that these users have created networked identities on X by employing shared social identifiers associated with their HIV status.
“We can tap into their datafied world to understand their connections and at the same time, we can also study the very online spaces that they inhabit. So the question now becomes: how might we harness the vast reservoir of social media data to better understand their life world?” he said on understanding Filipino men living with HIV.
After the presentation, three discussants from different fields shared their insights regarding the dissertation.
Dr. Rosanna Ditangco, head of the AIDS Research Group at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, commented on X’s popularity as a social networking platform.
“As 59% of new infections [of HIV] in the Philippines are young people, deep diving and understanding the X accounts help inform, advocate, and provide support for people living with HIV,” she stressed.
Another discussant, Zol Brilliance Bautista, a development communication student, emphasized that “social media is a great tool for us to harness and use it for social good, and help the community discuss certain issues.”
Atty. Melvin Calimag, Executive Director of Newsbyte PH, talked more about the uniqueness of X as a platform. “You do not have to be friends with someone on Twitter to interact with them. Unique ang platform ng Twitter [Twitter is a unique platform].” He also mentioned that journalists themselves use Twitter as a tool to gather information.
In her closing remarks, Lyn Resurreccion of the Science Communicators Philippines Inc. (SciCommPH) praised the success of the event considering its number of attendees. She also mentioned her anticipation to see a similar forum next time.
Meanwhile, DSC chair Dr. Elaine DC. Llarena hoped that the SCICOMversation 2023 made its participants reflect on the value and importance of communicating science to the public. She also assured the participants that DSC wilk keep the conversation going by engaging more scicom practitioners in future seminars.
The afternoon session of the hybrid event was attended by 93 participants in total – 30 online and 63 face-to-face attendees. (Mark Jasper Alvarado, Marius Cristan Pader, and Paolo Rumbines; Photos: Marius Cristan Pader)
Dr. Jefferson Lyndon D. Ragragio from the Department of Science Communication (DSC) delivered a talk on “Science Communication and Democratic Communication” during the first of a two-part hybrid seminar held in the College of Development Communication (CDC) Lecture Room 1 and via Zoom on 4 December 2023.
This was part of DSC’s SCICOMversation: Navigating Complexity Through Meaningful Conversations about Science, an annual seminar series featuring speakers with trailblazing work in science communication for development. It was held this year in partnership with Science Communicators Philippines Inc. (SciCommPH).
Dr. Ragragio emphasized three essential elements for the effective integration of science communication: diverse voices, emerging publics, and interpretive science communication.
He discussed the intricacies of science communication, explaining its dynamics at various levels: micro, meso, and macro level On the micro level, he noted how science communication interfaces with people’s perceptions of science. On the macro scale, he emphasized the responsibility of scientists and science communicators in addressing the public about their work. In the meso space, which lies in between the micro and macro, he scrutinized the role of media organizations in reporting on science. He underscored the pivotal role of media as a major influencer capable of shaping and shifting public views.
This was then followed by reactions from the discussants from three sectors, which included Asst. Prof. Mark Lester M. Chico (academe), Gianne Nicole P. Ruiz (student), and Timothy James Dimacali (practitioner and science communications head of the College of Science Communication at UP Diliman), all of whom voiced their impressions of Dr. Ragragio’s talk.
During the open forum, Dr. Ragragio highlighted that the importance of further discussing the different notions of sciences and addressing how to access science information. Participants also exchanged insights on enhancing the practice of science communication, emphasizing the call for ongoing dialogue and improvement in science communication practices for a more inclusive policy-making and a better informed public discourse. (Clarisse Cardenas, Rafael Dilla, and Jose Mari G. Endona; Photos: Mario B. Maningas)
The DEVC 126 (Participatory Development Journalism) students of Dr. Wini B. Dagli were immersed in the ins and outs of working in the development sector through seminars held for them by development agencies Oxfam Pilipinas and RebootPH on 26 October 2023 at the College of Development Communication (CDC).
First to hold a seminar in the morning was Oxfam Pilipinas, an organization committed to advocating social justice and empowering communities to eradicate poverty, providing invaluable insights, and practical knowledge.
Two speakers from the agency facilitated a seminar via teleconferencing that aimed to equip future Development Communication practitioners with essential knowledge and skills to navigate potential risks and ensure safety in their future endeavors within the field.
They highlighted the significance of implementing safeguarding measures during fieldwork, which involve the set of procedures and policies to ensure the well-being of development workers in the field, as well as their partner communities and other stakeholders.
They also facilitated a workshop prompting students to identify potential security risks in the conduct of their fieldwork to be able to identify measures to mitigate them.
In the afternoon, an onsite talk was delivered by a representative from RebootPh, an organization advocating for clean, secure, and accessible electricity. They introduced their collaborative project on climate justice and just energy transition.
“Advocating for the objectives of the organization is inherent to DevCom students and doesn’t necessitate additional teaching or instilling,” he said.
He also conveyed an essential aspect of effective Devcom practice likened to the essence of the Oblation – “maghubad ka” (“to give oneself”), which symbolizes shedding personal beliefs and biases when engaging in fieldwork, preparing oneself to learn from the community earnestly.
At the end of the seminar, Dr. Dagli expressed his appreciation for the talks of the speakers.
“As an instructor, I am happy that we can update our pre-fieldwork guidelines in CDC as we partner with Oxfam Pilipinas and RebootPh this semester. Since the field of Devcom practice constantly evolves, our partners provided us with new information on how to mitigate better various types of risks that may emerge before, during, and after fieldwork,” he said. (Hannah Rito)
The College of Development Communication (CDC) congratulates Arvin Christian R. Castro for being accepted as an exchange student at the Mendel University in Brno, Czech Republic for the Winter Semester (September-January) 2023 through the Erasmus+ / Bilateral Agreement Student Exchange Program. This was made possible through the UPLB Office of International Linkages.
Interested in becoming an exchange student? Learn from the experiences of our student.
Living and studying in the Czech Republic offers me a unique lens to analyze global development challenges, fostering a comprehensive understanding of interconnected issues and promoting a more inclusive perspective in crafting communication strategies.
Why did you apply for an exchange program?
I applied for a student exchange program to broaden my cultural perspectives, enhance my academic experience, and develop a global mindset. I believe exposure to different educational systems and diverse environments will not only enrich my personal growth but also contribute to my future academic and professional endeavors.
What inspired you to pursue this endeavor?
I was inspired to pursue an exchange program in the Czech Republic due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and strong academic offerings. The country’s central location in Europe provides an ideal base for exploring neighboring countries and understanding diverse European perspectives. Additionally, the renowned universities in the Czech Republic offer unique academic opportunities, especially in my field of interest. I am eager to immerse myself in this dynamic environment, learn from a different educational system, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture.
How will your experience as an exchange student complement and enrich your Devcom education?
As an exchange student in a diverse cultural setting, I believe my experience will significantly enhance my background as a Development Communication student. Exposure to different cultural contexts will improve my cross-cultural communication skills, which is crucial in Development Communication. Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds will provide insights into varied perspectives, helping me craft messages and strategies that resonate across cultural nuances. Studying abroad will broaden my knowledge and expose me to alternative approaches to development issues, allowing me to critically evaluate communication strategies in different cultural and socio-economic contexts. Living and studying in the Czech Republic offers me a unique lens to analyze global development challenges, fostering a comprehensive understanding of interconnected issues and promoting a more inclusive perspective in crafting communication strategies.
The College of Development Communication (CDC) was tapped by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), under the leadership of Dr. Glenn B. Gregorio, in holding its “Training on Scientific Writing and Presentation for Higher Education Institutions (SciWriting4HEIs) in the Philippines” on 6-10 November 2023 at the SEARCA headquarters.
A team of CDC academic staff led by Dean Maria Stella C. Tirol served as resource speakers. These included Dr. Edmund G. Centeno, Dr. Serlie Barroga-Jamias, Dr. Benjamina Paula G. Flor, Asst. Prof. Avril Adrianne D. Madrid, Asst. Prof. Reianne M. Quilloy, and Ms. Charlene Mae B. Arkaina.
They mentored the 25 participants of the training on journal article planning and submission, abstract writing, and data visualization. They also facilitated a mock conference paper presentation. Read more from SEARCA. (Miguel Victor Durian; Photo from SEARCA)
The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), led by its director, Dr. Glenn B. Gregorio, partnered with the College of Development Communication (CDC) in conducting “Strategic Communication Planning Workshop: Enhancing Communication Skills for Higher Education Institutions in the Philippines (StratCom4HEIs)” participated in by 19 participants from 13 HEIs on 20-24 November 2023 at the SEARCA Headquarters.
Led by Dean Maria Stella C. Tirol, a team of CDC academic staff served as resource speakers tackling various aspects of the strategic communication planning process using the Communication for Rural Development Framework of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO-UN).
These academic staff included Dr. Benjamina Paula G. Flor, Dr. Elaine DC. Llarena, Dr. Rhodora Ramonette DV. Custodio, Asst. Prof. Rovil A. Espiritu, Dr. Mildred O. Moscoso, Asst. Prof. Aletheia C. Araneta, Mr. Elijah Jesse M. Pine, Ms. Renz Frances D. Abagat-Manrique, as well as Dr. Edmund G. Centeno, who is the program’s technical coordinator.
Read more from SEARCA. (Miguel Victor Durian; Photo from SEARCA)
Radio broadcasters from Oriental Mindoro and Agusan del Norte, Philippines were trained in producing programs focused on agricultural biotechnology last 11 November 2023 in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, Philippines.
The training was organized by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), through the Bridging and Upgrading Mechanisms and Pathways for the Uptake of Biotech (BUMP UP) Project, funded by the Philippines’ Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR).
Participating radio stations include Radyo Natin Pinamalayan and DWXR Kalahi FM in Oriental Mindoro, and Magik FM and Radyo Serbato in Agusan del Norte.
The broadcasters were trained and mentored by faculty members and community broadcasters from the Department of Development Broadcasting and Telecommunication (DDBT) of the University of the Philippines Los Baños College of Development Communication (CDC) and Radyo DZLB Ang Tinig ng Kaunlaran (The Voice of Development).
Assistant Professor Ryan Jay Galang, a DZLB community broadcaster, discussed the need to communicate agricultural biotechnology. He also presented the current landscape on people’s perceptions about agribiotech. Assistant Professor Trina Leah Mendoza, DDBT department chair discussed science popularization techniques that broadcasters can use to laymanize agricultural biotechnology topics and to make them more understandable to people. Mr. Guien Eidrefson Garma, an instructor and DZLB news anchor, discussed potential segments and program formats suitable for discussing agribiotech.
The trained local broadcasters are expected to start their agricultural biotechnology radio programs in December 2023. (Guien Eidrefson Garma; Photo from SEARCA)
An alternate version of this article was initially published on ComDev Asia.
The Department of Science Communication (DSC) brough the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute’s (DOST-SEI) 7th Indie-Siyensya Film Festival to UPLB on 6-7 December 2023 in the College of Development Communication (CDC) Lecture Room 1.
It featured ten films that highlight the concepts of sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
During the opening session on December 6, opening messages were given by Dr. Aimee Lynn A. Barrion-Dupo (Member of the Board of Judges of Indie-Siyensya and Professor from the UPLB Institute of Biological Science), Engr. Albert G. Mariñp (Deputy Director of DOST-SEI), and Dean Maria Stella C. Tirol.
The Department of Educational Communication (DEC) facilitated a seminar on video documentary production for agriculture students on 9 October 2023 at the Agricultural Systems Institute (ASI) Lecture Hall of the College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS).
Two DEC faculty members, namely Dr. Edmund G. Centeno and Mr. Elijah Jesse M. Pine, shared their knowledge on the processes and techniques of video documentary production. This activity was held to prepare the AGRI 61 (Agricultural Extension and Communication) students of Dr. Dario A. Cidro in the production of documentary videos tackling agricultural issues and technologies, which will be one of their major outputs for this semester.
Dr. Centeno discussed the pre-production phase of video production, particularly on writing the rationale, treatment, and objectives (RTO), scriptwriting, and storyboarding techniques. Afterward, Mr. Pine also shared tips and tricks on the video production phase, such as asking questions during interviews, framing, capturing videos, and recording audio.
Faculty members, REPS, and staff of ASI also attended the event. (Emerey Ralph P. Racoma)
