Last week I was invited by Muntinlupa Division Schools Superintendent Dr. Evangeline P. Ladines to speak before aspiring journalists at the Division Press Conference held at Sucat Elementary School. Unfortunately, I couldn’t be there that morning due to a scheduling conflict with my High School Grand Alumni Homecoming.

So I requested Principal Raul T. Felix, to read this message in my place. Principal Felix used to be the principal at Itaas Elementary School, which holds a special place in my heart because it’s where I first went to school.

Here’s my advice to the campus journalists through Principal Felix:

You’re about to start an incredible journey—one that has the power to shape our society, spark change, and uncover the truth. It’s so important to support freedom of the press, even at the school level.

Hence I congratulate the Schools Division Office for organizing this event which aims to help grow campus journalism while teaching important values like ethics, critical thinking, and integrity to young Filipinos like yourselves.

My journey in journalism started at Muntinlupa National High School, where I wrote for our school newspaper, The Chanticleer, and eventually became the Editor-in-Chief.

I continued my passion for journalism in college, writing for The Guidon and later The Palladium at Ateneo College of Arts and Sciences and Ateneo College of Law.

While studying law, I also worked as a reporter for Manila Times Radio (DZMT) and later for the Philippine Daily Star, covering important stories like Manila City Hall, the Department of Justice, the Supreme Court, and the Department of National Defense.

My time as Press Secretary during President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s administration was a turning point for me. It was a shift from asking questions as a reporter to providing answers as Press Secretary.

During that time, I also started writing a weekly column called “Speaking Out” for several respected publications.

To all of you campus journalists out there, remember this: you have the power to become champions of a free press and fearless reporting.

Journalism isn’t just a career—it’s a responsibility. In a world full of information, it’s up to you to separate truth from lies and report with honesty.

Stick to the principles of ethical journalism—let truth guide you, challenge assumptions, and amplify the voices of those who aren’t usually heard.

In a time when misinformation is rampant, it’s crucial to report accurately and with empathy, because your words can inspire change and bring people together.

As you begin this noble journey, keep in mind the advice of experienced journalists: use technology to your advantage, but never compromise on your ethics.

Stay informed, develop a sharp eye for news, and focus on your strengths in the field.

I believe in each and every one of you. You have the power to make a difference, break barriers, and leave a mark on the world.

Congratulations to all our high school journalists, and may your pens be mighty and your voices strong!

Muntinlupa City surpasses 2023 tax collection

Muntinlupa City has seen a significant boost in its income thanks to its effective tax collection efforts. In 2023, the city collected nearly P6.4 billion, a notable increase from the previous year’s P6.2 billion. This success, highlighted in the annual report by City Treasurer Erwin Vibora, demonstrates a collection efficiency of over 100%.

Mayor Ruffy Biazon commended the City Treasurer’s Office for its efficiency, emphasizing that this uptick in revenue will fuel more projects for the benefit of Muntinlupa residents.

The City Treasurer’s Office alone contributed P2.3 billion to this income, achieving a collection efficiency of over 119%. This revenue encompasses various taxes, fees, and income from different sources like property tax, licenses, and partnerships with other entities.

Key contributors to this income include offices like the Business Permit and Licensing Office, the City Engineering Office, and the City Zoning Office. Notably, the Muntinlupa Sports Center stands out with a collection efficiency of 181.15%.

The success of Muntinlupa’s tax collection efforts can be attributed to strict adherence to relevant laws and policies, ensuring that taxation is implemented effectively and fairly.

Overall, this surge in revenue reflects Muntinlupa’s commitment to financial management and governance, paving the way for further development and improvement in the city.

([email protected])