‘Pag usapang DevCom, tiyak na palumpalo!

For this week’s entry, I present to you the story of Mr. Lemuel “Lem” Castillo, a BS Development Communication alumnus from the University of the Philippines Los Baños.  

On January 9, 2022, I interviewed one of DevCom’s pride—an energetic, witty, and versatile man. I first saw him during the Freshman Orientation, and I was honestly amazed by what he has achieved and contributed to the field of Development Communication. His talk made me really look up to him, and I got to learn the ropes of DevCom in the real world.  

Several weeks later, I encountered him again. But this time, it was during the application process of UPLB Development Communicators’ Society (DCS or DevCom Soc)—the premier and home organization within UPLB’s College of Development Communication. Turns out, he is an alumni member of DCS, while I am a current resident member. That became another common denominator that allowed me to reach and interview him.  

The one with burning passion 

I consider Mr. Lem Castillo a natural in the DevCom game.  

Back during his high school years, he was the editor-in-chief of their school publication and was a campus journalist. Although he was not aware of being an aspiring development communicator, he had experiences that were highly related to the field of development communication.  

Unaware of the course BS Development Communication back then, he initially heard it from his cousin who was studying in UPLB back in 2012. As Mr. Lem stated (non-verbatim), “dito kasi sa Pilipinas hindi ganoong celebrated ang communication courses—ang sine-celebrate nilang courses ay engineering, accountancy, at medicine. Alam ko namang hindi ako mag-eenjoy ‘pag ayon ang kinuha ko. At dahil mahilig ako magsulat, naramdaman ko na nasa DevCom ang passion ko.”  

So then, in 2014, he chose BS Development Communication as his priority course in UPLB which was his first campus choice. He passed the UPCAT and welcomed the boundless world of DevCom.  

The one with persistence and resourcefulness 

When I asked him if there were challenges that he experienced when he was still studying, Mr. Castillo did not hesitate to say yes. 

“Pinakanahirapan ako noon sa teknikal na aspeto ng kurso. Bilang mag-aaral kasi ng Development Communication, may expectation sa atin na maging sufficient sa paggamit ng tools at software. Hindi gaya ng iba kong mga kaklase noon, hindi ako masyadong magaling doon. Ngunit natutunan ko din ito over time.” He said. 

Aside from that struggle, he shared having to get open source versions of software such as those of Adobe, for the reason that he couldn’t afford to purchase the licensed versions. He also cited the struggle of editing video materials as the laptop he used at that time had low specs.  

He had to learn everything from scratch which I personally admire as a DevCom student. Not only was he eager to improve on things that were new to him, he was also very resourceful from the beginning—easily possessing one quality a development communicator should have.  

When he finally mastered the art of using multimedia and creativity software, he proudly said being able to make publication materials—something that he was definitely able to use in his work.  

The one with leadership and an organization 

Mr. Lemuel Castillo (at center) with UPLB DCS during Pillowtalk 2018

As a BS DevCom student and current resident member of UPLB Development Communicators’ Society, I got curious about Mr. Castillo’s journey in DCS and what it contributed to him as a development communicator.  

Mr. Castillo recalled that the aforementioned organization trained him as early as a student to apply what he learned in his classes. 

“Natuwa ako noon kasi yung mga theoretical concepts na inaaral namin sa klase, nagamit ko sa mga aktibidad ng DCS. Sa mga event kasi ng org gaya ng iRead at Tarabyangan, yung mga natutunan ko sa mga lessons namin naihaharap namin sa mga tao. Dahil sa DCS, natuto ako makihalubilo sa iba’t ibang klase ng tao. Natuto akong mag-adjust, makipag-interact nang maayos, at na-train ako to work professionally at ito ay isang bagay na dinala ko rin sa trabaho ko.”   

He also added the contribution of the organization to his endeavor as a student leader.   

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During the second semester of academic year 2017-2018, he ran as a councilor. After a sem, he got elected as the college university representative. And in the academic year 2019-2020, during the following semester, he got elected as CDC SC chairperson. He quotes that this was not only a personal victory—it was a milestone to UPLB DCS as well. He was the first DevCom Soc member to hold the position of CDC SC chairperson after 10 years again.  

The one who loves and serves people 

Mr. Lemuel Castillo’s graduation picture

In the month of December, year 2019, Mr. Castillo experienced every isko and iska’s dream. He wore the famous Sablay—the official academic costume and garment of the university that marks the end of a student’s stay in UP and marks the beginning of a UP graduate’s undertaking in the real world.  

Clueless to the line of work he wanted to pursue, Mr. Castillo explored career openings. He scrutinized each one, finally taking the opportunity offered to him by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). He worked in the field of science communication—creating publicity materials, and interviewing Filipino inventors and scientists about the technology they made.   

Surprisingly, even though it was only his first job, Mr. Castillo asserted that he exceeded the expectations of his boss—crediting it to the training that UPLB’s Development Communication had provided him.  

“Pagka-gradute ko, madami nang opportunities na lumapit sa akin. Nagulat ako kasi kahit unang trabaho ko pa lang, relatively, mataas na yung salary ko. Tapos doon pa sa DOST, ako lang yung nag-iisang aplikante na DevCom graduate, at ako ang napili. Kahit unang trabaho ko pa lamang, nagawa ko nang mabuti yung mga responsibilities ko dahil sa lahat ng natutunan ko sa DevCom.” 

Photo from DOST-TAPI

He got promoted thrice already and is currently working as a senior science specialist at Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI). He is currently the head of the Technology Innovation for Commercialization or TECHNICOM, a flagship program of DOST. 

“Dito kasi sa PIlipinas madami naman tayong Filipino scientists and inventors. Ang problema lamang ay hindi nai-cocommunicate nang maayos ang kanilang research outputs and technological breakthroughs. Ito naman ang ginagawa namin. We look for research and development projects around the country, looking for technology created by Filipinos—o yung mga teknolohiyang gawang Pinoy—tapos tinutulungan din namin sila in a form of grant and we fund the enhancement, intellectual property protection, field and market testing, and market-readiness ng mga technologies na ito.”  

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The program started way back in 2003, initially handled by DOST. It was then transferred to TAPI in 2013. As of the moment, there are about 60 technology programs under TAPI’s wing—with applications in agriculture, marine, energy, water, smart management of electricity, health and diagnostic technologies, food security, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital industry.    

Just like what Mr. Castillo has said, the program is a testament that they are doing the mandate given by the government. 

The one with mastery in Science Communication 

Undoubtedly, Mr. Lem’s supervision in TAPI reached great heights. When I asked him what the secret was behind his success in handling the program, he said that it was going back to the basic principles of science communication.  

“Ang science communication kasi ay mas democratized take on Science. Dito, yung scientific and technical terms, iniisipan ng paraan kung paano maipapaintindi at communicate sa mga tao. Kailangan mo lang balikan yung principles of science communication. Popularization, translation–ilan ito sa mga ways ng pag-communicate ng Science sa masa. Importante dito na balikan yung basics na pinag-aralan noon sa DevCom.”  

Subjects such as DEVC 153, DEVC 154, and DEVC 136 have been a great help to Mr. Lem.  

Although during his high school years he didn’t really like Science, he cites that with the DevCom courses centered around science communication, he eventually learned to love and master it.  

“Dahil sa Development Communication, I get to enjoy and appreciate Science.” 

Mr. Castillo’s Most Memorable – A Bonus  

Mr. Castillo is a living proof that DevCom indeed comes a long way.  

But… What about his favorite moment when he was still a student?  

Back during his college days, Mr. Castillo loved fieldwork and DevCom outputs. But there was this particular one that he couldn’t forget. It was a project in DEVC 136 (Multimedia Production and Management).  

In 2018, they looked for a community that had a problem that can be solved with communication.  They went to Pangil, Laguna, to help a community of single mothers. They educated the single mothers about the privileges of a single parent and created materials that taught the single mothers about the laws beneficial to them.  

But that was not only the thing that they helped the single mothers with. As they went along with their project, they even helped the community reach a national organization–expanding the single mothers’ horizon to the community of single parents.  

Currently, the national organization formed the “Solo Parents Partylist”, the first political group in the Philippines to represent single parents.  

This was the victory of both parties. This materialized ‘development’ in development communication.  

“Nakakatuwa kasi dati ginagawa namin yung project para sa grades pero unconsciously pala, natutulungan na namin yung mga tao. Kaya palang baguhin ng isang school requirement ang isang community.”  

The one embodying development and growth

BS Development Communication equipped Mr. Castillo with skills he otherwise wouldn’t have learned in other disciplines. May it be technical, personal, and organization skills, Development Communication brought upon lessons, activities, and actual experiences to Mr. Castillo that became a foundation for his work, and it provided him with a channel wherein he got to pursue his passion.  

Development Communication trained him to be independent, creative, intelligent, resourceful, persistent, and passionate. DevCom trained him to learn through the hardships, continue innovating, and be the best person he can be not just for himself, but also to be able to do the responsibilities of a development communicator efficiently, and be able to bring change upon people and communities.  

Forget Me Not

Today is the 9^th day of January, three days before the last day of submissions of our activities and exercises for our DevCom courses.   

I know, this entry is two months late already. As I am writing this, I realized that I don’t really how I got here. I don’t know how I got past the first few months of the semester; more so, how I managed to do our activities. 

But as much as my journey seems messy, I am certain that I must have done something right and learned lessons that, for me, are valuable enough to take as I go on with my college years.  

Here are some of them.  

1. With Notion, there is control  

I didn’t know the power of organization…not until I got in Development Communication. 

Back in November last year, I remember being all over the place because of my backlogs and missed activities. It was at that moment when I tried using Notion, a notetaking software best known for its function in task management.  

Just like what others have said, it indeed acted like a second brain—one that’s clearly more put together than mine. It allowed me to organize my tasks in a list, and easily see which I should work on immediately. Ever since I used it, I really was able to focus on one task at a time, with the joy of ticking something off my list urging me to finish my tasks as soon as possible.  

2. Don’t get it right, get it written 

American author and cartoonist James Thurber once said…  

 
“Don’t get it right, get it written.”  

James Thurber

And I totally agree with his statement.   

To be honest, I always find myself having a hard time doing our writing tasks. I spend hours working on it, and the most difficult part for me is starting it. I believe that it’s because of the pressure I’ve been putting on myself—trying to make my work perfect even when it’s just the first draft.  

I learned that it’s totally just inefficient.  

The right sequence should be: get it written, then edit it, and get it right. Perfectionism is a thing that shouldn’t take over especially in writing, as it can seep in all areas, causing you to even avoid attempting things for the fear that you won’t be able to do it perfectly. It is a leading cause of procrastination that I admit having committed.  

I also learned that bad-mouthing your work by saying it’s crappy is just pointless because truth is, as others say, your first draft will probably suck—and it’s okay. After all, that’s what a draft is supposed to be like. And in order for you to get a second draft—an improved version of your work—you must have something to revise; you must get the first draft written.  

Accepting this mantra will turn off our inner editor and perfectionist tendencies that will help us get writing done which is one of the most important things in this discipline.  

So, whenever you feel like perfectionism haunts you, just whisper to yourself: do not get it right, get it written.  

3. Temptation is a no-no 

“The devil comes in many forms and guises—and mine’s a computer game.”  

It’s 3 AM. I am still working on my Weekly Writes and the thought of playing Valorant suddenly came into my mind. I then gave up to the temptation, but the cost is something irreversible. It cost my time that I could’ve allotted to doing my work, and I really just couldn’t bring it back.  

If there’s something I learned the hard way during the semester, it’s fighting temptation. It’s fighting off the desire to engage in short-term urges for enjoyment that threatens long-term goals.  

It’s something I learned only after I got the consequences. Given the amount of schoolwork I have to do and the amount of backlogs I have to catch up with, I couldn’t really afford to spend my time on such things. But… being the easily-distracted and passive person that I am, I just couldn’t resist sometimes. Although it made me happy to a certain degree, it still bit my a** off in the end.  

Now that it’s all in the past, I can say that I already learned my lesson.  

4. Maintain a healthy routine 

If there’s one thing I’d never trade off with anything, it’s maintaining a healthy routine. It’s something that, I learned, is the most important thing in doing any schoolwork especially DevCom activities.  

Personally, I am a person who can’t really function when I am not well-rested and so, I really need to make a routine that’s realistic and healthy. But making one doesn’t only mean making a schedule that works for me. It also means dedicating my time to have enough sleep, eat properly, and build on habits that are good for my well-being and productivity.  

As DevCom activities take energy and a lot of thinking, it’s best to be in a robust state so that one would be efficient.  

5. Learn as you go  

Out of all the things that I’ve learned, I think that this is the most important.  

Being a first year BS Development Communication student, I’ve encountered new things that required much wisdom and experience. Even with our Weekly Writes and lab exercises, I can say that it required much understanding and proficiency that I’m aware not fully having yet as of the moment.  

That is why, for me, it’s very important to take in the lessons we’ve learned along the way—may it be from the lectures we attend or the remarks that we get from our professors—and apply it on everything we are tasked with and every situation that we are put in. 

As others say, no one is really born good at things already but the least we can do is take in the knowledge we learn as we go along the way, and always have room for improvement.  

The Not-To-Be-Without

Being a media writer is definitely something that’s far from being easy. With the responsibility of having to write, research, and pretty much do everything that is related to communicating with people, there are just tools and equipment that make the work bearable and efficient.  

As a media writer in training, here are the things that I regard as not-to-be-without throughout the journey.  

Items I regard as not-to-be-without

1. Laptop 

Holy grail. Prime. Supreme. These are the words that I think best describe what a laptop is for media writers.  

A small and portable computer, it bears the functionality for everyday use. Writing, researching, making publication materials—you name it! You can do it using a laptop. Given that it’s light and compact, it can easily be taken anywhere without the need for a desk or other surface. It’s perfect for students—not just now that we are in a remote class set-up but also when we finally go back to face-to-face classes.  

A laptop is totally an investment.  

2. Smartphone 

At this point, I think that I really just can’t live without my phone.  

The moment I wake up, it’s the first thing I grab—checking notifications, reading messages, and opening social media to be updated with what’s happening. But smartphones are not just used for personal matters like these—it can also be utilized for academic purposes.  

Since online class has started, it has been an extension of my workplace that allows me to attend Zoom meetings, access Google classroom, and other software that are used in attending classes and making my requirements.  

To be honest, a smartphone’s ultimate function for me is allowing me to attend classes whenever I’m not able to use my iPad, or multi-tasking.

And basically whenever I wake up late and in a rush to enter Zoom meetings.  

3. Microsoft 365 

Never have I ever written so much in my entire life.

For the past three months, I’ve been working my way around words, extracting every thought that I can type into the document. And my best friend has been Microsoft 365, a software compressing Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, OneNote, SharePoint, Teams, and Sway all into one place.  

Trust me, if you use any of these things, you’ll never have to find other application to do your school requirements—especially those of DEVC 11. With the scope and wide array of tools Microsoft 365 offers, you’ll be able to get creative, organize, and even store your academic files.  

I personally love typing my papers in Microsoft Word that’s under this software because it has the Editor feature which gives my work a score. It can be set to three levels of writing—casual, formal, and professional. It can even see through the spelling, grammar, and refinements such acronyms, clarity, and conciseness of your work. Sounds like magic, right? I believe that these can all be accessed for free with the perks of UP mail.  

What are you waiting for? Go and get this wonderful tool!  

4. Ring light and microphone 

Knowing that it’s only natural for us media writers to create audio and visual content, I think that having a ring light and microphone is definitely a must.  

A ring light, a tool that is commonly used in portraits and fashion shoots, has been an essential in every household—especially of us media writers. While the quality of the video depends on lighting, it ensures that the subject is illuminated, eliminating shadows that may cause alterations. It also makes the colors more vivid.  

Who said that microphones are only used by singers?  

Well, I think whoever said so, it’s incorrect. Given that we, media writers, also engage with radio programs, hosting gigs, and other forms related to talking, it’s best for us to have microphones that ensure the clarity and loudness of our voice. It’s best for us to have microphones that filter background noises since it’s not really guaranteed that the place where we’ll be shooting and recording, will be quiet and free of other sounds that are not part of the audio material that we are making.  

5. Spotify  

A student’s bag generally includes things like books, paper, pens, notebooks, laptop, and earphones. Clearly, these are things that supposedly make a student’s environment fit for studying.  

But…what about earphones and Spotify?  

Music has been a constant force in student’s lives. Whether it’s at the library or walking between classes, students are relentlessly plugged into their favorite music—and I can attest to this. As a person who really loves music and cannot go on a day without it, it has become my companion as I do my schoolwork.  

Writing is not easy, but with music, I am able to concentrate more and my thoughts flow more smoothly. It makes me feel less pressured as I write, and it dwindles the tension that I’m feeling.  

With studies like the “Mozart Effect”, it’s been suggested that music improves brain function and memorization—giving us a good reason to believe that whatever’s playing through a student’s earphones could actually make them better in learning, more efficient in working, and more inclined to the enhanced study experience.  

Although classical music’s not really everyone’s cup of tea, I say that it’s only a matter of finding the right music—whether it be instrumental, lo-fi, acoustic tones, white noise, or even K-pop.  

There is definitely a reason to listen to music, which is why there is definitely a reason to avail Spotify premium that’s discounted using the UP mail. 

The Deal with Starting Somewhere and Competency

Renowned Japanese writer Haruki Murakami once said…

“Everybody has to start somewhere. You have your whole future ahead of you. Perfection doesn’t happen right away.”

Haruki Murakami

And indeed, it is true. It is applicable to media writers and development communicators—whether they are still training or established.  

Being the former, I must say that I honestly find the discipline of development communication a little difficult. Even though I grew up writing a lot, I seem to always struggle to put the words down. I often catch my train of thought stopping, and there are times that I just do not know how to explain a certain message that I want to say to people.  

But, I guess that is normal.  

Being in the field of development communication certainly takes a lot of patience, practice, and understanding. It does not solely depend on one’s fluency and literacy—its core orbits around qualities and skills.  

As we aim to be efficient communicators serving the people, there’s a huge necessity for us to do our best to be understood, first and foremost. Therefore, we must know our objectives and communicate clearly. Honestly, if I were to rate myself in this matter, I certainly wouldn’t be giving myself the highest score.

But, I believe that having known my deficiencies as a media writer and development communicator-in-training gives me the prospect to improve and work on my abilities. Learning the specific areas I should work on, which for instance are being resourceful and being adept in gathering data, shows where I should spend most of my time and efforts on.

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  A self-assessment of my qualities and skills as a media writer

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As I take my time to assess myself, I realize that my judgements would not be the most accurate—given that I haven’t really seen nor gathered much feedback from others. However, I conclude that the most important quality that every media writer and development communicator must possess is the love and interest for people.

I believe that this quality is unsurmountable knowing that it is the heart of service for people, and it is the reason why one even does the work to help people.

As for the skill, I regard writing clearly and effectively as the most crucial one to master. Writing is a delicate thing that when done clearly and effectively, it brings efficiency and knowledge to people which allows them to be independent—empowering them to make informed decisions. It is a powerful thing encompassing the other four qualities which are namely: gathering data, validating and clarifying information, organizing information, and proficiency in the operation of tools and devices.

But, I think that the top quality and skill of a media writer and a development communicator-in-training would be worthless without putting a premium on accuracy and truth.

In a time where disinformation and misinformation are just as easy to be seen as news, we, media writers and development communicators-in-training must seek and let the truth prevail. As elections approach this year, we must do our best to debunk false and misleading information to prevent people from having perceptions that lead them to choosing undeserving candidates.

With that being said, I conclude that possessing the qualities and competence in skills determine my effectivity as a media and development communicator-in-training; therefore, I will do my best to improve myself to serve people.

The Art of UPCA

For me, the journey of becoming a UP student does not only start on the day you send your application form and requirements. It begins long before the much-anticipated UPCA—beginning on the very first day that you step foot in your first school, in the lowest level of education.  

How come?  

Well, if you’d ask me, I believe that the journey of becoming a UP student is something that one works for throughout his or her pre-college days, regardless of being aware of it or not. It is a long process—something that one builds upon, and continues to work on as he or she goes on with his or her education.  

But to be honest, in my case, I was lucky enough to be a consistent honor student who managed to be persistent back then, despite not having the goal of entering UP—or at least that time. I was lucky enough to mindlessly be working onto such a rare thing that not everyone gets to be blessed with.  

However, now that I am past the application stage and an official iska, here are some tips that I learned that may help you through the riveting application process of the University of the Philippines.  

Start ‘em young  

As a product of Kumon myself, I agree with them saying “the earlier children learn, the better.”  

Having said awhile ago that the journey of becoming a UP student starts on the very first day that one steps foot in school, I believe that developing oneself through engaging with learning sets a great foundation for their future. 

I advise that as early as possible, explore different activities within and outside your school, to learn new skills and acquire new knowledge. Participating in extracurricular activities provides fun learning opportunities—boosting your eagerness. Aside from that, these activities can also inspire you to explore new passions and interests that you may want to pursue in the future.  

The more you are inclined with extracurricular activities, the more your skills will be enhanced, and you’ll be better equipped with invaluable life skills that you can take into college—into UP.  

Do your absolute best during your high school days  

Although I was a straight-A student back then, I knew that I lacked in some ways. Looking back now, I wish that I exerted more effort during my junior and senior high school days.  

When I applied for UP, I realized that there will be a tight competition between me and thousands of applicants. Since high school grades are part of the requirements, there is a need for it to be as high as possible. Not knowing the exact correspondence of UPG (or University Predicted Grade), it’s best to be prepared to present your strongest card which is to have satisfactory grades that also fit the UPG cut-off of your chosen courses.  

To be honest, the UPG that I got was not that high, and I suppose that it’s because my high school grades were just around the average—not really high enough for the standards of UP which, for me, is totally understandable. Having known that now, I am recommending that you take high school seriously, and make your plate as full as possible—as best as it can be.  

Do not run and gun 

“Do not run and gun.” — this is something that I often hear whenever I play Valorant. As Oxford Languages has defined it, it means “denoting fast, free-flowing play without emphasis on set plays or defense.” Although this is a popular quote used in games and sports, I could say that this is applicable in the context of applying for UP.  

Similar to the notion in games, one should not “run and gun” —one should not act without thinking through and committing to what he or she has done.  

Knowing that applying for UP is momentous, one should ponder over it as early and deliberately as possible. One should ask themselves these questions:  

1. What is the most important to me?
2. What is the career I want to pursue?
3. What kind of environment is life-giving to me?
4. What sparks my interest the most?
5. What is my purpose or what do I want to contribute in the society?
6. Which course will make me happy and fulfilled?

When all is said and done, you would want to make a decision that’ll bring joy and bear fruit. As your course will be a foundational and determining factor of the path you’ll take after graduating, it is necessary to choose the right one. Take into consideration that your college will become your home for the next four years of your life, and make sure that it’s a place where you can grow—both academically and personally—and where you can make memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Remember, the choices you make upon the UPCA will also reflect on the probability of you getting into the university and securing a life after college that’s productive and worth living.  

The magic of recon

Did you not pass the UPCA like me? Worry not, for you have another shot.  

Reconsideration, also known as recon, is a process that begins at least a month after the release of UPCA results. It is a process wherein applicants are evaluated again and given a second chance. Being a recon applicant myself, I attest to its magic and kindness that was once bestowed upon me.  

But, how do you exactly do this?  

As far as I can recall, reconsideration for Batch 2020 started sometime in August. It was done through OWAS, a website especially allocated to waitlist and recon applicants. It can be accessed through the temporary applicant account that UP provides.  

The process of reconsideration varies depending on the course one is applying for. Since the course I applied for recon was BS Development Communication, I had to pass an application letter and be interviewed by reputable people from the College of Development Communication. To be honest, I remember being so scared and nervous then. Thoughts like “What if I still don’t pass this time?” and “What if I am not able to answer their questions?” sprang to my mind but with my head held up high, I can say that I got through it and the anxiety was worth it.

It was a process that allowed a detour leading to where I am right now—in UPLB, studying the course that my heart has been beating for. 

As much as taking the road less traveled scared me, I still put in a good word for it. Just like what Lance Armstrong once said, “if you ever get a second chance in life for something, you’ve got to go all the way.” 

Read and be ready  

People always say that reading is a skill important to one’s success, and honestly, I could not stress this enough. 

Knowing that there are quite a number of questions and guidelines us applicants were required to follow during the UPCA, I think that the first step to make then was to read and understand the instructions. It was the only way for us to be updated and be able to keep up with the process, given that our batch’s UPCA experience was the first of its kind and unlike the typical.  

Honestly, I was lucky enough to have my sister guide me throughout the process. Had it not been for her who reminded me to always read and not miss a word, I wouldn’t be able to be prepare for the next course of action, and I wouldn’t be able to finish the process without a hassle or mistake that could have led to disastrous consequences.  

There you have it, aspiring iskos and iskas! My ultimate advice from this point is to put your best foot forward, have courage, and trust in the process.  

Padayon at kita-kits sa Elbi sa tamang panahon!  

Development Communication: Bridging Serendipity and Hope

Development Communication, for me, lies parallel with serendipity and hope.

Here’s why.  

Growing up, I’ve always looked up to people studying in UP and honestly, I hid the aspiration of wanting to be a UP student because of the fear that I might not get accepted and disappoint my family. I applied quite silently—not anticipating anything—choosing UPLB as my first campus and BS Development Communication as my priority course.  

Truth be told, I was so clueless during the application period. I did not really have a strong basis for choosing the course—all I wanted back then was to get into UP and take up something that is related to media and communications. When the results were released, I got dispirited with the rejection that was brought upon me.  

I spent days wondering where I lacked, and I felt scared for my future—thinking that there was no course meant for me. But despite that, I persisted with the undeclared dream—the dream of becoming a UP student. So then, I applied for reconsideration. I remember that time, I’ve almost chosen BS Economics over BS Development Communication because the idea of having to write a letter and being interviewed stricken me with horror. Additionally, I thought that the former course would give me a higher chance at getting into the university.  

My sister after telling me to choose Development Communication—or at least how I imagined her to be like

But…an angel appeared before me—aka my sister—and insisted that I should go for Development Communication. And so, I did.  

I remember exhausting all resources days before the interview and when I was writing my letter. I read up blogs, and these sort of reviews that appeared on Google. Surprised with what I’ve learned, I instantly felt that my passion was indeed in this field.  

And boom, I got accepted into the course.  

Best letter I’ve received in my entire life

Serendipity revealed itself to me, and my hope was restored. As I delved into the semester, I learned that Development Communication is a course with a heart—being centered on serving the masses and helping them achieve the goal of being mobile, independent, and progressive, both as individuals and communities.  

I joined UPLB Development Communicators’ Society (DCS), and that’s where my knowledge and understanding of what Development Communication is expanded. As I spent time with my fellow resident members and alumni, I got to know how extensive the field of DevCom is—how it is a versatile and prospective discipline opening windows to a thousand possibilities.  

Originating from the university’s Office of Extension and Publications which is now the College of Development Communication (CDC), pioneer Nora C. Quebral regarded the discipline as “the science of human communication linked to the transitioning of communities from poverty in all its forms to a dynamic, overall growth that fosters equity and the unfolding of the individual potential.” It is divided into four departments, namely: Department of Development Broadcasting and Telecommunication (DDBT), Department of Development Journalism (DDJ), Department of Educational Communication (DEC), and Department of Science Communication (DSC).  

If you know, you know 😎

Despite people saying that DevCom is just like Mass Communication and Communication Arts, I differ with their belief. For me, DevCom is so much more. Development Communication corresponds to the passion and advocacies of people, giving them a sense of responsibility and drive as communicators to be at the forefront of the advancement of communities.  

As a development communicator-in-training, I strongly believe that the tasks given to us will help us hone our skills, not just in writing but in other aspects as well that are supplementary to what we may be doing in the future. And as much as this course challenges me, I have a conviction that it will always be for the best, knowing that our expertise will always be for the benefit of other people.

Lagi’t lagi, para sa bayan.  

To My Past Self: A Letter Long Overdue

As an incoming freshman, I was honestly excited to be going to college. As an incoming freshman who got into UPLB through reconsideration, I felt so honored to be studying in the prestigious university. It felt like a beacon of hope. The first few weeks felt surreal. I was surprised by how the university was really welcoming to new students. I could say that joining seminars and attending orientations felt like a warm hug that time.  

But looking back now, I think that those made me forget that I was a student whose fate was to be loaded with a lot of tasks and be confronted with challenges that I’ve never experienced before. Not gonna lie that despite doing my best—based on my knowledge that time—I still wish that I’ve done things differently—more efficiently.  

If I only have a time machine, I would go back and tell myself these things.  

1. Do not prolong the agony, do your tasks immediately  

During the first few weeks of classes, I was taken aback by the requirements I was given. I didn’t know where to start. I thought to myself, “matagal pa naman ang deadline.” But that, my friends, is the part where I went wrong. I realized now that as much as I was overwhelmed that time, I still should’ve pushed myself to work on my tasks.  

Instead of thinking that way and agonizing over the load of schoolwork, I should’ve at least started doing them. I’m telling you, starting is the best way to counter this dilemma. Starting is the beginning of good things, and it will save you from unnecessary stress.  

Remember, prolonging the agony only makes the unpleasant situation last longer than it needs to.  

2. “Organize, don’t agonize.” ― Nancy Pelosi 

In honor of the first thing I wish I could tell my past self, I am taking it to a greater depth. To further be able to do tasks immediately, I wish I organized them in a list (or honestly in any way, I just said the ‘list’  so that it would be rhyming.)  

Now that I am almost at the end of the semester, I am certain that writing tasks down does make the horizon clearer. I remember that it was only during late November that I’ve started using Notion—a notetaking and project management software—and it was only during that time that I was able to start and really work on my tasks.  

As much as agonizing is an easy path to take as it’s easy to complain, talk myself into believing that there’s just about nothing I can do that can bring change, and wait for the right moment to do my tasks, I’m reassuring my past self that with organization and time-management, I am choosing to make now the right time, and I am not putting myself at the dreadful feat of procrastination.  

3. It’s okay to not be okay  

A reminder, not just to my past self, but to everyone as well.

To my past easily-anxious and faint-hearted self, I wish you knew that it’s okay to not be okay. I wish you knew that despite the seemingly never-ending episodes where you cried and felt helpless, you are still worthy and will be able to get back up.  

Whether a rough patch, a bad day, or an unexpected challenge comes your way, and you find yourself stressed out and not knowing what to do, know that it’s okay to admit that you are not okay, that you are allowed to cry, and your feelings are valid.  

I wish you knew that it’s okay to be vulnerable, especially to your friends and family. And although things burden your mind, know that everything indeed passes, and hard times do not last forever.  

To be honest, the past months have not been easy for me, especially the month of November, as I have been faced with problems that really affected my mental health. Despite that, I am grateful to have been put in those situations because it helped me become the person I am today—stronger and more courageous.  

4. Attend classes as much as possible, especially those of Econ 

Photo from Harvard Business School Online

In UPLB, attending synchronous classes is not required. However, I wish that my past self did not take this religiously. 

Months into the first semester, I realized that it’s better to attend classes because sometimes, studying on your own while trying to catch up with lessons is much harder. I’m putting the emphasis on Economics on this matter because, out of all the subjects I’m taking right now, it is the one I’m struggling with the most.  

80% of success is showing up.

Woody Allen

Do not get me wrong, I certainly can understand and do math. But business math? I think that is questionable. With every lesson in Econ having an assessment, I think it’s necessary to attend classes especially that the time we can study is limited as well.  

It’s even better to study the lessons in advance—something I wish my past self did consistently. I admit that I only did it during the first few weeks of the semester. I noticed that since I stopped doing it, I got lost in the lessons and studying for it became only inefficient to me as it really took time.  

Sometimes, the key to success is studying in advance, and attending the ever-helpful classes.  

5. All is well 

A scene from Three Idiots carrying astronomical amount of comfort

I think that out of all the things that I wish I could tell my past self, this one hit the hardest.  

Taking reference from the Indian film “Three Idiots”, I now deeply agree with Rancho’s mantra that “all is well”. I learned now that I should not have worried so much back then as everything really falls into place. I learned that I will always conquer my problems—with the aid of supportive people around me—and I will be able to stand firm in situations that test my capacity as an individual.  

To my past self, give yourself a pat on the back for having survived what you thought was unsurviveable. Have courage in the darkest of times and gracefully tell yourself that “all is well” because everything will be okay.  

Much better if you can stream this lesson’s anthem “Aal izz Well”.

BTS: Behind the Screen

This is my view.  

An iPad, a bluetooth keyboard, and a pair of earphones laid atop the table. Enter Zoom meeting, leave Zoom meeting. Eyes directly staring at the screen.  

What really is it like to study from home? What really goes behind the screen?  

Well, I would say that it’s quite an experience. A one-of-a-kind experience.  

During the vacation, I had a routine that was really different from what I have right now. Wake up, eat, play Valorant, workout, watch Netflix, sleep, repeat—that was all I did. Those days, my view was the computer where I spent most of my time playing Valorant and watching Netflix. Really just fun, carefree times.    

Then about half a year after, I suddenly found myself in college. Freshman year started and I really didn’t know what to expect. All I know back then was that I was taking up BS Development Communication, joining a lot of webinars and activities here and there. I had no idea of what awaited me.  

My routine changed. I wake up around 6 am—or at least I try—and attend my first class. It’s only after that that I eat my breakfast and drink my unmissable-and-life-changing cup of coffee that energizes me. Most of the time, I squeeze my tasks in between attending synchronous classes. The dark sky denotes my endorphin-releasing workout—an activity I have been consistently doing for almost 3 years now. But… there’s a big disclaimer.  

Lately, I haven’t been able to do this routine. I became busier because of academics and organization. I unconsciously drifted apart from my routine. It’s become more of a freestyle that didn’t help my productivity.  

But I learned now.  

To be honest, I’m not really the type of person who is used to having a lot of things to do. Because of that, I tend to easily get overwhelmed—leading myself to not accomplishing tasks that burdened me even more. The fact that I have backlogs paralyzed me. It became a cycle that up until now, I’m still facing the consequences and working on.  

I learned that one of the most important things that I should’ve done was plan. Had I been organized from the start, I would have probably been more able of functioning and being efficient in doing my tasks. Had I only planned, I would have been more prepared and able to properly manage my time. I learned that I should’ve mentally prepared myself knowing that I’m really going to be busy and be loaded with a lot of tasks. It’s almost like “acceptance is key” but leaning on less bitterness—saving one from probable anxiety.  

But of course, work is not only the important thing in this matter. ‘Work and play’, as others say. One must also rest to avoid being burnt out. One must still allot time for doing things that make them happy. In my case, I usually play Valorant and workout to de-stress once in a while. I also spend time with my friends. Just remember that it’s the little, enjoyable things that keep us sane and remind us that life is beautiful despite the seemingly never-ending chaos.  

I must say, being in college has been the most eventful and packed I’ve ever been in my entire life. The last three months taught me a lot of things in ways that I never imagined. Time might’ve gone by in an instant, but I can still say that the things that occupied me then—and still do right now—were the reason why my freshman year’s still memorable and full of bliss despite it being a rollercoaster ride. 

To all students out there, I hope that you are not severely stressed because of the load you are carrying—whether it be academics or personal life-wise. I hope that the culture shock doesn’t discourage and faze you from the what you’ve been dreaming of. I hope that you see silver linings in struggles as you embark on this journey—know that it’s all going to be worth it. 

As early as now, I’m assuring you that this is a wonderful time for learning so have courage and make the most out of it.  

Dana: Ang Tiyak sa Isang Libong Duda

Eto na nga ang tanong na hindi ko alam ang sagot.

“Sino nga ba ako?”

Binubulong ng isip ko, “kailanman ay hindi ako naging magaling sa pagpapakilala ng sarili ko.” Gayunman, susubukan ko at lalakasan ang loob.

Ako si Dana, isang babae na hindi pa nawawari ang kanyang landas. Lumaki akong tila nasa loob ng maliit na mundo—maliit na syudad, paaralan, at grupo ng mga kaibigan. ‘Di gaya ng iba rito, sa totoo lang ay wala ako masyadong karanasan sa mga bagay na sa kanila’y tumbad at ordinaryo. Mula pagkabata, ako ay mahiyain na talaga. Sigurado din akong ito ang sasabihin ng iba ‘pag sila ay tinanong kung sino si Dana.

“Si Dana? ‘Yan yung batang tahimik pero consistent honor student. ‘Yan yung valedictorian nung elementary na madaming inuwing medalya. ‘Yan yung may mga kapatid na matalino at talented. ‘Yan yung marunong tumugtog ng gitara at ukulele.”

Sa paulit-ulit na pagrinig ko nito, akala ko noon ay nasa langit na ako. Akala ko ay nasa mataas na ‘kong rurok. Ngunit hindi, nagkakamali pala ako.

Madami akong naging pagkukulang sa aking sarili. Madaming katanungan. “Paano kaya kung noon pa lamang ay naging passionate na ako sa mga hangarin ko sa buhay? Paano kaya kung nagkaroon ako ng tiyak na pangarap? Paano kaya kung pumasa ako sa science high school noon? Nasaan at sino kaya ako ngayon?” Naramdaman ko ang tindi at sakit ng mga katanungang ito nang muli akong hindi pumasa. Tila sinampal ako ng katotohanan. Mabuti na lamang ay nabigyan ako ng pangalawang pagkakataon at nakapasok sa UP sa pamamagitan ng reconsideration (o mas kilala sa katagang “recon”).

Nabuhayan ako matapos nito. Natutunan kong kilalanin ang mga “pagkukulang” ko bilang grasya na nagdala sa ‘kin kung nasaan ako ngayon. Siguro nga, nagkaroon ng lang ng detour sa aking paglalakbay.

Sabi nga ni Ebe Dancel sa kanyang kantang Bawat Daan, mayroong “nag-iisang tiyak sa isang libong duda.” At sa aking bersyon, ito ‘yon: madami pa akong matutunan at mararating. Hindi man perpekto ngunit masisilayan ang makulay na kinabukasan. Hindi man ang pinakamatapang, tiyak na kakayanin pa rin ang anumang hamong ibabato ng buhay.