GOV.PH
Two outstanding students from the CSPC-College of Arts and Sciences have made the institution proud after qualifying for the 2nd Batch of the Storytellers’ Academy of multi-awarded broadcast journalist Ms. Jessica Soho, organized by GMA Public Affairs.
From thousands of applicants nationwide, Mary Bless Elyza Belen, a 4th-year BS Development Communication student, and Amanda Lazaro, a 3rd-year AB English Language Studies student, earned their place in the prestigious program held on September 23, 2025, at Cinema 11, Gateway 2. The event gathered aspiring storytellers from across the country for a day of learning, reflection, and inspiration.
The program began with the registration and photobooth sessions, followed by a pre-program at 1:00 PM. Ms. Jessica Soho officially took the stage at 2:00 PM, delivering inspirational stories that captivated the audience. Later in the afternoon, award-winning journalist Atom Araullo joined her for an engaging discussion on truth-telling and the role of storytellers in society. Selected students were also given the rare opportunity to interact directly with the two journalists during a special interview segment.
Reflecting on the experience, Amanda Lazaro shared:
“I am a dreamer, and those dreams are rooted in my family and where I truly came from. Joining the Storytellers’ Academy is one of the biggest milestones in my life. Meeting the Philippines’ most awarded journalist and learning directly from her is something I will carry throughout my journey as a student, reporter, leader, and language student. Indeed, Ma’am JS’s line, ‘stories can change lives,’ is real—and I am ready to move forward with progress, kindness, and compassion.”
Meanwhile, Mary Bless Elyza Belen highlighted how the program reignited her passion for journalism:
“This experience reminded me why I chose this path in the first place, why I chose to be a student journalist, not just another face in the crowd. It brought me back to the purpose behind every truth I chase. And now, more than ever, I know I’ll keep walking this road, no matter how tough, no matter how long. Because truth is worth every step… and TRUTH KNOWS NO LIMITS.”
The program concluded at 6:00 PM, leaving participants inspired and determined to pursue the values of truth, integrity, and excellence in their craft.
The achievement of Belen and Lazaro stands as a testament to the talent, hard work, and dedication of CAS students in the field of communication. Their success brings pride to the CSPC community as they continue to embody the values of integrity, excellence, and service in their pursuit of truth and storytelling.