Mariano Marcos
State University

GMA Network-MMSU tie up: Stratcom staff, CAS faculty join star-studded Masterclass

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) received a plaque of gratitude from GMA Network, Inc., the Philippines’ media giant, for being a partner in the GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series Luzon leg, held today, March 6, at the Universidad de Dagupan, Arzadon Gym, Dagupan City, Pangasinan.

Receiving the plaque on behalf of the university was Mr. Edmar Delos Santos, officer-in-charge chief of the Information Services of the Office for Strategic Communication (STRATCOM) and a faculty member at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS).

Also representing MMSU at the masterclass were STRATCOM information officers Mr. Crisdeniele Clemente, Ms. Jesslyn Keith Valite, and Mr. Robert Joe Pagtama, along with CAS faculty members Mr. Berlin Jay Zion Palacay, Dr. Bryan Realgo, Mr. James Lloyd Guittap, Mr. Jol Jacin Valera, and Asst. Prof. Jerry Buenavista. They engaged in discussions led by journalists, artists, and media executives from GMA Network.

During the session, Ms. Aileen Perez, GMA Integrated News Social Media assistant vice president, highlighted the role of social media in shaping election narratives. She emphasized how algorithms influence public perception, noting that the content people encounter online is not always truthful.

Martin “Coach Hammer” Antonio, GMA Synergy sportscaster and analyst, underscored the importance of teamwork in leadership, highlighting how leaders should work with their communities rather than solely for themselves.

Meanwhile, Ms. Bernice Marie Sibucao, GMA Integrated News senior manager and deputy head of digital strategy and innovation, shared insights on covering the Philippines in the digital age. She discussed how social media can be leveraged to enhance election coverage and public engagement.

Adding a personal perspective, Miss Universe Philippines 2021 and Sparkle artist Bea Luigi Gomez shared her journey as a beauty queen, community worker, and NGO leader. She stressed the importance of aligning personal values with the leaders people elect.

Veteran GMA Integrated News reporter Joseph Morong discussed voter demographics, pointing out that Generation Z holds the second-largest share of voters in the May 2025 elections. He emphasized that the votes of young people, especially first-time voters, could significantly impact the country’s future.

In the final session, GMA News Online editor-at-large and veteran journalist Howie Severino reflected on the evolution of communication technology. He noted that digital natives and migrants now have the ability to control their communication, whether addressing an individual or a mass audience.

“When we vote, we should choose the right candidate, we need a criteria first," GMA Regional TV and Synergy First Vice President and Head Oliver Victor Amoroso said in Filipino about the significance of the masterclass.

MMSU solidified its commitment to truthful journalism and responsible reporting by joining other companies, universities, media organizations, and election watchdogs in signing a memorandum of agreement and participating in an oath-taking ceremony for GMA Network’s Panata Kontra Fake News and Dapat Totoo campaigns. This event was held at the GMA Network Studios in Quezon City in 2024, ahead of the 2025 elections.

Through this partnership, MMSU aims to support GMA Network’s advocacy of fostering an informed and responsible citizenry in preparation for the upcoming elections.