By Harvy T. Bangayan and Gadjel M. Herodias
PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines (PIA) — The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) here strengthened the capacity of campus journalists on responsible and ethical storytelling amid the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
The activity gathered student writers to enhance their media literacy and adapt to the evolving digital landscape, held during the Journalism Seminar-Workshop at Josefina H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC)-Pagadian Extension.
One of the participants, TJ Pahayac, noted the growing dependence of students on AI tools.
Dako kaayo nga reminder for us na we should not be replaced by AI since halos kita tanan na ang mogamit, especially students who engaged in AI tools the most,” he said.
(This is a big reminder for us that we should not allow ourselves to be replaced by AI since almost all of us are already using it, especially students who are the most engaged with AI tools.)
Guided by the theme “Strengthening Campus Journalists for Ethical and Impactful Storytelling,” PIA highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with accountability, particularly in the use of AI tools in journalism.
PIA Government Information Center Coordinator Clennkei C. Peñalosa emphasized that while AI is becoming more present in media and communication, journalists must remain grounded in truth and responsibility.
AI should not replace you,” Peñalosa said.
She stressed that authenticity and human judgment remain essential in producing credible and meaningful stories.
She explained that AI may be used as a support tool for research and information gathering, but should not be relied upon to fully generate journalistic content, as this may compromise accuracy and ethical standards.
Among the topics discussed by the PIA were developmental news writing, photo captioning, and mobile journalism.
The seminar underscores the government’s commitment to empowering young communicators with the right knowledge and values to navigate modern journalism, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for truth rather than a substitute for it.
J.H. Cerilles State College is an official member of PIA’s Information Volunteers (iVolts) Network, which aims to strengthen the dissemination of government information within academic institutions and communities.
This network is composed of students and advisers who serve as citizen reporters, helping ensure that essential information on government programs, opportunities, and services reaches students and the wider community. (JPA/CCP/HTB/GMH/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur with reports from JHCSC)
