http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/ What's on the minds of young leaders from around the globe? en-us http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/39078 destiny that is passionately made over time with
faith, hardwork and dedication. Becoming an author
(in National Bestseller) is the least to my
priority, though writing is something that I
cannot live without doing.

Before I started writing the book last year, it
was just a plain idea. While observing the people
coming in and out of the mall, I asked myself: "Is
there a job waiting for these peple?" Well, I
think I was referring to the students that time.

After 15 days, working 3 hours a day (waking up at
5am and writing 'til 8), the book is done!
Discipline could best describe it.

What I found out that while doing the manuscript
is that in life, it's not about an immediate
answer to our questions that matters. That's why
it has always been my philosophy to look for the
reason, not for the answer, because reason
automatically gives the answer.

"Is There a Job Waiting for You?" is a question I
never had to ask myself because I found my reason.
As early as 20, I was already a correspondent of
The Manila Times which would invite me as a
columnist at 23. I was in my fifth year when
Malacañang Palace appointed me as Presidential
Technical Assistant for Youth Affairs.

I want to help young people (by age or by heart).
All I have wanted to do is to make other people
better than I am. I want them to realize their
aspirations. I want to help them achieve their
ultimate dreams.

My book was written with 9 proven effective
weapons to make jobs look for you. For once, stop
thinking like looking for a job. Trust me, if you
don't have competitive advantage, might as well
not to compete. Stay away from the 95% of people
who looks for job. Let the jobs look for you.
That's it.

This is the link of the books website so you can
understand what such "mini-bible" according to
JobsDB.com.ph is all about:

http://lloydluna.googlepages.com

Join me in promoting this humble contribution of
mine to our future workforce, and for the country.
Let us bring back the smile on each and every face
in our generation. Join me in bringing back the
hope, and then together realize it for us, in our
time, and for the generations to come.

[Pass the good news. Already out in bookstores
nationwide. With distribution reaching the United
States and Europe.]



Your buddy to the top,

LLOYD A. LUNA
Author
Is There a Job Waiting for You?
www.lloydluna.com

t: (632) 882.4251 m: (63) 918.625.8951
:: (63) 927.756.2777 :: (63) 922.933.8076]]> Tue, 30 May 2006 23:40:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/39078 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/35938
Literally, yesterday's event has made me cry. I just cannot help but to express how sorry I am for the country and for my fellow Filipinos. My tears were not the answer to my question: Why do these things have to happened? Yet, they helped me to somehow figure out what these things are all about.

I've found the reason.

This country will never move forward. Not--unless every Filipino decides to sacrifice his personal interest. This country will always back to zero and start from a scratch. Because almost everyone wants the canvas painted by his own hands--alone. This country is killing itself. Because of the system of self-destruct created by our leaders.

But I won't take time criticizing the old. I would only waste my time. I want to appeal to my fellow youth instead: Let us avoid the same self-destructive mechanism that this generation has created for us.

My call is a simple commitment. Let us prepare our ranks. Let us learn from these destructive events. Let us promise ourselves that when our time comes to lead this nation, we will never magnify division that we see today, political circus that they play today and selfishness that everyone is seemingly serving.

The real essence of democracy is not marching on the streets to depreciate the power of peso. It is not working outside the system to change it. It is working inside the system and promising not to be eaten by it. It is not going against the government. It is working with the government.

Democracy, for me, is not about leftists or the rightists. It is about left and right talking about what is common between them. It is not shouting loud. It is about talking softly and diplomatically. It is not something to die for. It is somthing to live for.

My friends, democracy doesn't work simply because the people don't know what it really means. We don't use democracy as a tool to improve this country. We abuse democracy. And we use democracy to justify what we unbecomingly do to one another. We don't know what was fought for 20 years ago. We only thought what we fought was freedom. Unfortunately, we don't have any concern on the responsibility enclosed in it.

No matter how we celebrate EDSA People Power every year. If we won't have a clear and common understanding of what we are celebrating about, going to the streets, leading wreath laying ceremonies and attending photo exhibits would only mean a common celebration to get the attention of the media.

Some anti (or pro) administration may say I was not present during EDSA 1, nor in EDSA 2. So I say: The difference between those were there and those who were not there lies on who live the Godly essence of democracy. I thank God I was not part of either EDSA. At least, I do my part in my small place in Fort Bonifacio. And that I don't join those who build a nation of self-destruct.]]> Sat, 25 Feb 2006 06:13:00 EST http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/35938 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/33510
Who is this John Ayudtud? What was his experience with God when he was just an infant? Why did God allow him to come to the United States at the age of 30 years old? Why did God allow seemingly evil things to take place in his life? Why did God bring him to San Jose, California and appeared to him there? Why did he become an ambassador for peace to Israel in 2003? Why is he doing the WMGA programs now? What is the real heart and purpose of life for John Ayudtud?

John Ayudtud, also called Bishop John, or, Dr. John, is very confident that he is the worldwide man of God’s answers in the new millennium. From the lowly place of Sicpao, Mahayag, Zamboanga del Sur, where he was born, to traveling to many countries in the world and conducting business lectures and inspiring thousands of people, he has no doubt in his heart that the hand of God is upon him in the new millennium. One observer of him said: “It is really evident of his transformation that he is a man with a new mission…” Indeed, John Ayudtud is called of God to do a purpose- and that purpose is to bring a change to the Philippines and to the world.

In our recent interview, Bishop John said that God made him live through a sickness when he was an infant because God was going to raise him up in these “last days.” “I was going to die, and in desperation, my mother prayed in a loud voice and lifted me up on both of her hands and said: ‘God, if you will let my baby live, I will give him to your service.’ And God revived me, miraculously. Why? The only answer to that is He chose me at that very moment to bring a message of hope and deliverance and change in the new millennium.”

At the age of 30 years old, John Ayudtud came to the United States. That very day, of June 24, 1983, he was taken by his host to a restaurant in San Bernardino, California and the waiters gathered around their table and sang Happy Birthday to you. Dr. John signifies this that Jesus Christ started his ministry at the age of 30.

“At age 30, God brought me to the United States in order to set me up for a worldwide ministry,” Bishop John declared.

Then, on January of 2001, the beginning of the new millennium, Jesus Christ appeared to him while he was lying down getting ready to go to sleep. It startled him a little bit to see Jesus Christ standing tall by his bedside. He spoke with clear and distinct voice… “YOU MUST GIVE THE FOOD TO PEOPLE… YOU MUST SHOW THE PEOPLE HOW TO PROSPER… YOU MUST GIVE MONEY TO THOSE WHO NEED MONEY…” When he asked the Lord Jesus Christ why he had to do these things, he got the answer as: “BECAUSE YOU ARE MY MAN…”

That evening Bishop John did not go to sleep the rest of the night. He got so excited after the Lord Jesus Christ disappeared into the darkness of the evening. He exclaimed: “The Lord just appeared to me, and I cannot believe it, and He said that I am the man of God in the new millennium!” That very evening he coined the word, WMGA, which stands for: The Worldwide Man Of God’s Answers.

Shortly after that, the ministry of Bishop John turned 180 degrees. The next three years were formative years for him, so he told us in our interview. “I would be driving and the Holy Spirit would get a hold of me and I would just shake violently. He would tell me things that I have not learned from the Bible. He told me that He is the God of the world, not the devil. The devil is only god of darkness and of ignorance. The world, the earth, and all the people here, belong to God. He told me that He is not the God of the dead but of the living, and that He is no longer the God of the old testament, nor of the New testament. They are all gone. They do not exist anymore. God does things right now in the present, and He is the God of the manufacturing world, the entertainment world, the business world, the education world, and He said that people are simply trapped by pastors and leaders of religion. He said that what religious leaders are telling the people are not His words.”

Dr. John Ayudtud is simply brutal in his speaking when he would talk about people being trapped in religion. He says: “God is not religious, He does not pray, He does not come to church, He does not read the Bible… He is simply the God of life, the God of the world, the God of the present. Religion is a trap.”

Bishop John is very different in his teachings. He would say that it is not God’s will for people to get to close to God, so to speak. It is only the will of the pastor. God wants people to discover the world, and not religion. God wants people to discover life in the world. The world was created by God for people, so people must discover the world. But religious preachers are deceiving many people by saying that the world is an evil place, and that the devil is the God of the world. Bishop John teaches otherwise. The devil does not exist literally, he is a spirit that only exists in the mind, in ignorance, and in darkness. God owns everything, and so everything belongs to him. People should prosper in the world. God said that people should work and labor for six days, and only one day to God, and if they do this they will prosper. But religious people got this reversed, they say six days to God and one day for them. And God says: “That is not going to work. You will become poor if you do this. My plan is for you to labor for six days for your prosperity, and only one day for me.”

Bishop John believes that the religious leaders are fooling many people by telling them that heaven is a better place. The world is already a better place. But religion used reverential fear and it traps so many people with this fear.

Talking to Dr. John Ayudtud is not easy, because there are things that he mentions that are simply not Bible-based, but he would quickly reply that life is not Bible-based but present-based, good-based, and development-based.

When it comes to talking about the Bible being the word of God, Bishop John would say, you must ask God about this. Because He never said that the Bible is his words. It is only people that are in religion who tell the world that the Bible is God’s words. Perhaps, God might say a different answer.

Wow!!! No wonder why so many people are not ready to hear the JASE Lectures of John Ayudtud.

But for his followers, they all believe that he has God’s approval in the new millennium.

For comments on this writing please email: lloydluna@yahoo.com.
]]> Tue, 27 Dec 2005 02:14:00 EST http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/33510 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/33152
Everyone cannot help but notice the difference of his teaching philosophies from any other religious speakers. For one, John Ayudtud is an embodiment of God's love that was in Jesus Christ, as by example he lives that love out in the open and the power of God lives and moves in his being.

In January of 2001, the beginning of the new millennium, John Ayudtud was visited by the Lord Jesus Christ in person and told him that he is God's man for the new millennium to bring to the world God's answers.

The Lord Jesus Christ told him that he is being appointed as the WMGA, the WORLDWIDE MAN OF GOD'S ANSWERS. That has been about 4 years ago, and today, John Ayudtud has risen to a popularity as a modern day religious, and business philosopher and he draws large crowds to his lecture seminars entitled the JASE LECTURES.

Many pastors that are following the JASE Lectures attest that they have been completely
changed and reinvigorated by the new philosophies that John Ayudtud is teaching.

One pastor testified: "I have read the Bible many times, and I have preached the gospel in the period of 24 years, but I was not really changed. I was still angry. I was still uncontrollable in my anger fit.

But when John Ayudtud began teaching me of his philosophies, and I followed closely JASE Lectures, my life turned around in a complete change. Now I never get upset anymore, I never get depressed, and I never get down in my emotions anymore. John Ayudtud, through the anointing of God, turned my life around into a completely beautiful being."

Another person testified that John Ayudtud's smile is so great that seeing that smile alone changes people in a great way! "There is something in that smile, he is indeed a man of God, without any doubt!" a businessman said.

"When John Ayudtud told me to not let anything affect me, I learned my lesson since then. Now, nothing bothers me anymore, because I do not let anything affect me. I have complete control of my emotions!"

The followers of John Ayudtud believe so much that he is a man with a special mission in the new millennium. He is not just a religious person, or a business mentor, or a powerful speaker at that! They believe that John Ayudtud is the new man of God that will bring a new aspect of life, in a way that never before people have lived nor experienced.

John Ayudtud teaches on rulership, which is why his people are now on the rise. He has followers in the business places, in the academe, and in politics. John Ayudtud teaches that God is not religious, so it is just proper that God's children must not be trapped by religion, but must be free from it.

]]> Fri, 16 Dec 2005 00:43:00 EST http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/33152 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/30395

John C. Maxwell, an American best-selling author puts it this way: Trust is the foundation of any relationship.

I agree without reservation. In fact, I had a personal experience about it. Such experience made me believe that mobility on earth has a basic law. And a factor called trust has something to do with our every day lives.

Couple of months ago, I was invited to co-own a publishing company in Makati City. That was after my stint as corporate communications manager in an events company. I was in my hype when the invitation came and so I accepted the offer. For me, such opportunity can add to my value since I really love working in publishing.

We started in April just this year. Right after my presentation on how the company is to operate, I immediately dropped names that will compose my inner circle. After several weeks, I made a very good team. I hired bright and talented graduates of St. Paul, DLS-CSB, Baliuag University, Ateneo, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and UST. My plan was to have the best mix of young minds coming from schools of different cultures. I was successful at that.

When we started our operations, everything was not yet set up. We didn't have a conducive working space and we didn't even have desktop computers, internet connections and telephone lines. Still, our team made it to deliver the expected output. We have come up with a long-term plan and everybody was well-oriented on their tasks.

I hoped one time to stay and beat the odds. I had a very good team and I knew very well that the publishing will work. But my relationship with my partner didn't give me enough reason to stay. After a more than a month, we parted ways. When I thought my team members would join me, they stayed and told me: We'd rather go where the money is. That was the time when I strongly stood with my principle.

I am a type of person who easily gives trust. For me, that’s where every story starts anyway. And when I got my people in to work for me, I trusted them. And it was the same trust and confidence that I gave my partner. Unfortunately, they didn't give me the same level of trust.

Just two days ago, I heard that the company (existed in four months and didn't manage to even take off) was already closed.

This is what people don't get most of the time. They put the situation over the relationship. And they think it’s ok. The reason why my team mates had left me and chose to stay with my partner was obvious. The situation then told them that what they needed was money. Very unfortunate that it was not about the money. It’s about trust and relationship. It was on the same situation that I told myself that we don't deserve one another. Sacrificing my personal philosophies was never my option.

In any relationship, trust is one basic factor that we must never miss. We need to make it on top of our priority list. We may have the best business partner, best circle of friends, best professors, best mentor or best parents. But I think they won't become the “best” if we didn't trust them in the first place.

Everything must be built on a very strong foundation of trust. Unless we take a good eye on it, we won't get any farther. And take note that trusting others begins when you trust yourself to trust others.

Trust is never a business requirement. It is a significant business component. It is neither a skill nor talent. It is a divine conviction of a human heart.

]]> Mon, 03 Oct 2005 06:57:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/30395 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/29978
As for me, what have been said and done are said and done. Whether they are good or bad, they exist (and must stay) in the past. Lessons well-learned are the only benefits I see worth-recalling.

Just two months after working in an events company, I was offered to co-own another company. It didn't work out. The reason is that I had personal reservation on the attitude of my supposedly partner. When we parted ways, I didn't dwell on thinking the opportunities I might lose. For me, opportunities are so plenty that they are just in the corner if you are prepared for them.

Moving on made me see how blessed I am. Right after the hiwalayan, I went on my own--and soared the skies of good luck. That was an experience worth recalling. Doing stuffs, deals and projects on my own was never a joke. But again, I survived.

And so for me, there is really nothing good (and great) dwelling on the past. The past is never life. It's death. And living in it is simply the decision of those who have a dying mind and spirit. They are called desperate sometimes. I can see no reason why we still have to live on what had happened. It's absurdity. And it will never give any one a chance to live longer.

Perhaps, some people think it's ok to take revenge. Well, I agree at some points. It gives a feeling of fulfillment. But I ask: is it a question of fulfillment and satisfaction? I say it's not. Or even if it really satisfied you, it won't last long. The next day you wake, you'll realize that what satisfied you didn't even add something to you. In fact, it took away something from you.

It is always better to let go and move on. That's what life means. Unfortunately, not all people know this. Only those who think that life is about a day after another.

Would I mind if some people still hold me back? The answer I can't really tell. But I can act.]]> Fri, 23 Sep 2005 04:55:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/29978 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/29563
This is my second time to meet PSIS people who represent their own civil societies, academic organizations, NGO's and other organization. The first was last year prior to the Geneva Summit in 2003.

I am glad to hear that the Philippines is actually doing better compare to last year. One of them told us that "the Philippines is much prepared now".

As the discussion went on, I can't help to think some concerns from my personal end. I really think that the Philippine Summit is in dire need of intensive studies, more support from different sectors and stronger political will from the government. For me, inasmuch as we all wanted to take a significant lead in this campaign, we can only do much. At the end of the day, if the government fails to address the issues, we all fail.

The summit is very much crucial in the coming years. I can see how the Philippines will develop 10 years from now. I have a strong feeling that we only need more time to turn the worst situation upside down. That's why I am really concern of our ICT capacity.

Today, it's a battle between those who have the access to the information and those who don' have. Like how the rich and poor are separated by money, technology or information per se separates successful people from losers. Those who have the information simply accomplish and take advantage of the present (and future) while those who don't have are left behind.

In the Philippines where problems seemed to have overshadowed the good and the best practices natured in us, it will always take conserted efforts to develop faster. Thast's why I think by maximizing the ICT onfrastructure that we have, we can wage a national call at any time. This in turn would give us a greater chance of survival and of course eventually significant development.

Who knows about PSIS? Only few. And this is the bad news. Don't you think it would be best if we turn this into good news?

I think we must. ]]> Fri, 09 Sep 2005 05:37:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/29563 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/29232
Our agenda went like we were discussing how the magazine would go about. We are still in the process of formalizing and wrapping our thoughts up. I think it won't be tough since we have all the support that we need.

Yesterday, we have come up with a better plan. And I think we are on track to formally forming a publishing company and eventually produce publications for young people.

Joey Concepcion is really supportive. The very first day I met him (yesterday was the third time), I have felt and knew, he doesn't do it for money. And even he does, I may safely say that it's only a part of the bigger pie. Since he takes charge of the Center for Entrepreneurship, I think he has the heart to do things right, with passion and dedication.

We all agreed to really work for the project--getting a share in the company. I think that's a very good news since I failed to have my own sometime ago. It added to my value and I feel proud about it. It's a rare opportunity.

The boardroom, to my mind and understanding, is really something that adds value to people going in and out there. It gives additional confidence.

It actually gave me additional courage to talk directly with JAC without hesitation. I tell him what's in my mind and I deliver what he needs to get from our meeting. Such move, is something for me. I value that moment and look forward to more of it.

By the way, I already finished the book I am writing!]]> Fri, 02 Sep 2005 04:05:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/29232 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/28642
Student Leaders Summit '05 is one of our preparatory events for the Linggo ng Kabataan. Surely, will do the very best.]]> Thu, 25 Aug 2005 01:50:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/28642 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/28090
This is why today I am somehow proud of getting started. I begun with the end in my mind that the book I'm writing would create a resounding approval from young people. Besides, the book is for them.

I am almost done with the first chapter of it and I'm having some difficulties in organizing some ideas. Nonetheless, I find it very challenging (and perspiring).

Today, I talked about making and managing a decision.]]> Wed, 17 Aug 2005 05:39:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/28090 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27941
We had two consecutive trainings: Centro Escolar University School of Accountancy, Management and and Technology and the College of Nursing. These trainings happened in Pililia, Rizal and Development Academy of the Philippines in Tagaytay respectively.

First, thing we knew, we were riding an FX bound to Rizal around 10 in the morning. After two hours, we made it to the training venue. The place is called Villa Lorenza.

Pior to the speaking engagement, ian and I made an assumpion: This training might be the same old training style for youth leaders. We considered the arrangement of chairs, the attire, the entire set up. Having the assumption 80 percent correct, we decided to re-arrange everything based on what we deemed more effecive. And so the environment became convenient for the participants and of course for us.

We have also talked about my decision on the project for Joey. I told Ian that I am not fronting the project. I said my decision is to be part of the ownership as incorporator included in the decision making rather than doing the entire editing stuff as Editor in Chief. I also mentioned that I proposed we get an experienced editor for the position.

The point there was simple. I could have presented myself for the job. In that case, I would be the head of the project, if not entirely the bulk would be technical aspects of the project.

I did not.

The first thing I asked myself was this: "Can I make it?" The answer, I realized that it would be a great stake on my part. If the project flopped then i would ruin my reputation. I considered working for a tycoon--the people respected and known in the corporate world.

Second I thought was: "Why am I heading the project anyway?" The answer, I could be making a revenge for the last time I got involved in a publishing. I realized that taking the project's full responsibility would mean I proving something. I don't have something to prove those people, I said.

I have gone in a situation where my idealism and principles were put in a test. Like me, I believe that graduating students may also be entering in such test. And I wouldn't know how do they manage it.

It is becoming my habit to ask students if there is job waiting for them. and 9 out of 10 answer me there is none. These nine though are hopeful to beat another 399 applicants coming from different schools.

This training automatically became an opportunity for us to reach these "hopefuls". We made it sure that we leace them something that they may use in their every day struggle. Generally, we made an empowering version of leadership module, which according to the organizers really "changed lives".

At first, I didn't believe that such is life changing. For me, it should be a habit first before it can change life entirely. There are lots of training that these young people should attend. And unless they do that, they surely won' make it on top.

Lately, I got an idea that perhaps, it will change their lives. When I asked them if they would be willing to get involved in our events and trainings, they said they would.

The hope of the graduating students I met is the same hope of other graduating students out there. And there are things that are needed to consider for these "hopefuls" to succeed and beat others. While life is never a competition [but there is competition in life], it is always a thumb rule to make the best out of every activity.

Unless young people realize the principle of John Maxwell in his book "Today Matters", they are in a danger zone.

Their hope may save them, but their will and decision may bring them further than being saved.
]]> Sun, 14 Aug 2005 06:00:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27941 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27940
It has always my dream to be with the "rich". I have only one reason: I have to personally study how they think, they decide, they move, they dress, they smile.

Today, I've seen that dream.

The reason why we met Joey Concepcion of RFM Foods Corp. is that we need to present our concept of a youth magazine. days prior, Lawyer Marc advised us to work on a concept because Joey is looking at a possibility of publishing one. The publication is about entrepreneurship and leadership.

I was really proud of being there, leading the presentation of the idea. Right after the meeting, Joey told us about the next meeting. In fact, right there and then, he referred the outcome to Oscar, his Communications Director.

I didn't realize how important to Joey the meeting was--at least not until I looked at my watch and learned it's already lunch time.

We got some options to think about for the project. And, well, I think we are having a good deal so far.

My team went out and met in a lunch. We discussed the flesh of the project. And we came up with a framework.

I don't know how many learnings I got from this meeting. But for sure, the number is enough to say that it added on my value as a person. To name one, I have prepared a very short story.

"People out there" refers to greater majority or the masses. I heard once from a friend that it's unfair being called "people out there". It's marginalizing. But I said well, we can call them "people in there".

I think it's a matter of perception. If the rich people see opportunities in almost every thing, that is because they have a mindset of winners. If poor people see the negative in every crises, that is simply because they have the mindset of losers.

My friend, who happened to be a bishop, told me that poor people don't have the right to get rich. The point being is that they think poor, they move poor, they talk poor, they analyze poor and they weel, they do poor. First, my friend said, they have to qualify themselves. They have to change their mindsets. Otherwise, they'll die poor.

And I definitely agree. There is nothing wrong being one of the "people out there" as long as you are working things out for you to be "people in there" someday.

There is one reason I count why I agreed. It's because I myself belong to "people out there" but right I just realized that I'm becoming one of the "people in there".

The pinciple is simple. It's not in the getting. It's in the becoming that we are called successful. For when we become, we simply attract. And good people attract good people. The rich attract the rich. And the visonaries attract the same.

Lloyd A. Luna, 23, is an international online journalist.]]> Wed, 10 Aug 2005 05:07:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27940 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27489 Mon, 08 Aug 2005 05:48:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27489 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27428
Muchless the muscle pains, I considered last night's "reunion" a learning and inspiring meeting of old friends (or long lost friends to that effect). Present were Antonette (and boyfriend), Nap (and girlfriend), Dandie (and girlfriend), my younger sister Claire (and boyfriend) and Michelle (with none, I don't know why). With me was Jane.

It was my decision to play an indoor game when I stepped high school. I felt that I needed an indoor one for me to get away from the fury of the sun. Oh God, why do I have to get dark? Well, thanks, anyway.)

The first people I joined with was the badminton batch of Antonette and Bhryan. I started in 1995 during my first year. I can still recall how late I go out of school for the practice and all that. My father was even telling me to just stay and live in the court all day and all night.

It was still clear to me how we were bonded not just as players representing one school, the Gumaca National High School, but also as friends and well, I can safely say family. We have shared the same passion in badminton but not with our passion to work. I am in the media, the other one is in education, the other in entertainment.

In short, after our schooling, we have gone a long way. And we have ventured into different areas of expertise (?). And it was good, we find three hours in hour busy schedule to get together.

I have learned lots since my high school days. I thank God I had the chance of getting involved in sports. Or, not only got involved but created a name and pride for the school. During the 1998 STRAA Meet (Southern Tagalog Regional Athletic Association, I was a Silver Medalist in [men's doubles]. I was trained in a month (which meant being absent for the same period from my classes).

Sports specifically badminton have helped me to somehow grow into a well-rounded individual. You name it, I might tell you what and how. We talk about discipline, focus, harwork, smart moves and decision, stamina, they were all there. And I trust that I certainly use these learnings up to this day. I may not know it consciously but in my subconscious, I think I am always making good use of it.

The same is true with my friends, I believe. Just like me, they continue to live life to the fullest, struggle to grab the best opportunity and experience fun as frequent as possible. Looking at their eyes, I can see the dreams that we once talked about. And I believe that they too are optimistic still to get them only that they might not know how yet.

Smash is the a badminton terminology used when you are hitting a shuttlecock. And we steadily aim to smash it in every game and make sure that it drops at the opposite court.

We started to smash the real shuttlecock of life. And I think we are starting to strengthen the bond that has been there for long. Do I give time to go out and play with them despite my hectic schedule in the business?

Yes. I surely am.]]> Mon, 08 Aug 2005 04:42:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27428 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27287
The first thing I do whenever I enter the mall is to go to national bookstore and browse some books, not buy. By only entering its permises, I feel genius already so why still buy books.

Well kidding aside, I read books mostly motivational. I can see the trend now. Authors and publishers don't do much books of technical contents. They go for inspirational ones.

As I was sitting in a coffee shop, lots of young people go in and out. I didn't have the time to count them. I trust that each and every one has their own agenda. Some for dates, some for leisure and relaxation. Nothing wrong.

I asked myself: Are there jobs waiting for them?

The answer I couldn't know. But I got an idea of seeking for reasons. This quest won't be simple. But this idea seems to be a take off of my first book-- Is there job waiting for you?]]> Sat, 06 Aug 2005 04:47:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27287 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27278
My first meeting, in a breakfast, was great since four of us, including Mauro Cabading 3rd. We have come up to propose two options: a publication for a limited market or the one with the broader. Else, we have seen the magazine cover presentation.

It was acceptable!

After our meeting, I went to La Salle to deliver some thoughts, which happened to be a mentoring system. I talked to only seven young people. And I suggested we do it in a forum.

At the start, I hesitated to be formally introduced not because I have an overwhelming credentials but I think it's anti-climatic.

In short, I built myself up by sharing my experience as campus journalist and how my involvement really made me an icon in campus journalism.

Basically, I discussed about the organization and in between the discussions were motivational thoughts for them, historical backgrounds, some leadership principles and inspirational messages.

The number doesn't matter to me, for as long as I achieve my objectives. This time, I believed that I have influenced another seven people.

As I look at their eyes, I have seen a bright future in them. As I discuss my piece, I have observed them thinking the "future" and what else can we do. Basically, their minds were somehow triggered to function in a higher energy level.

I made sure that my presentation would be participative. And with the crowd I had, I think I made an effective strategy on talking with them in a forum cum consultation. For me, hearing them speak is an empowerment.

These writers, to my mind, have potentials to lead the country specifically my generation through their membership in media institution. And I bet that they can do more after this day.

I realized that there are people who are blessed enough to do good things, only that for me, the blessing could go far more than enough. For me, their social status can enable them to do better and better.

]]> Sat, 06 Aug 2005 01:35:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27278 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27257
Two nights ago, I texted Niel Lim, NCJP member from University of Sto. Tomas who happened to be the former President of the Journalism Society. During the meeting was the first time we talk about "business".

Hours before that, I browsed the registration form for the Youth Power event. I got one form from Tanya Tuble, a mass communication student from Far Eastern University. She is a member of PAMSO. I invited here to attend the meeting and I was lucky sh responded positively.

The Alchemist really taught me a lot of things when it comes to pursuing things. And I think today, the Universe favored me. I got them both and one more, I'll totally make my team for a very good project.

Tuesday, Atty. Marc called me up. He invited me to his Office and we talked about "business". But prior to that he asked me if it's possible for me to build team for a magazine. The project is an initiative of Joey Concepcion.

I said yes.

Our meeting in his office ended up with a great deal. I am making his website and helping him in his business and he's helping me with the proposal for JAC.

Going back to my presentation today, it was a very positive and favorable event, a significant gesture that I have some people who are also believing in the project. In short, they said "yes" upon asking them if they are in.

We gave ourselves an assignment. Tomorrow, we will see what we have accomplished in as far as the presentation on Monday (tentative) is concerned.

This, I believe, could be a start of something else bigger...]]> Fri, 05 Aug 2005 07:37:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27257 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27256
I recalled Ian made the first endorsement weeks before that.

And so I made one. Before I finished the draft, Princess called me up. I simply answered: It's already done.

And so I would like to share the letter of endorsement I sent to PGMA.]


04 August 2005


Her Excellency GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO
President of the Republic of the Philippines
Malacañang Palace


Dear Madam President:


Greetings in the name of developmental journalism!

It is a policy of our organization to recognize and support individuals who in one way or the other contribute to the development of campus journalism.

Since our founding in 2001 right after the “Kapihan ng Kabataan Kasama ang Pangulo”, we have evolved into an organization of proactive journalists. We are very fortunate to be supported by different individuals who by passion and dedication share the same vision for the nation, more specifically for the future Philippine Media.

As the country’s biggest and fastest youth media organization, our thrusts are to develop new breed of proactive, impact-oriented and development-based writers, prepare the future journalists of the land and produce globally competitive media professionals.

On our quest to realize our vision to be the Center for Campus Journalism Development, principled young leader continuously inspires us to work hand in hand with the community and learning institutions and we are very glad to find media enthusiast capable in pushing policies for the betterment and advancement of campus journalism.

It is in this light that we are writing to respectfully endorse PRISCILLA MARIE T. ABANTE as Commissioner of the National Youth Commission.

We believe that she isn’t only an expert in identifying policies but also an experienced leader in implementing projects and programs for the youth especially for campus journalists. More so, it is our conviction that her personality can inspire young journalists to perform their duties for the common good.

As member of the media herself, her appointment in the Commission is a guarantee to strengthen organizations that advocate developmental journalism, condemn corrupt media practices and support nation-building.

We look forward to your most fortunate and favorable consideration of this endorsement.

Thank you very much and more power!


In the service of campus journalists,


LLOYD A. LUNA
Founding Chairman and CEO
www.lloydluna.com

]]> Thu, 04 Aug 2005 09:29:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27256 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27121 CampusJournalism.com


It was my second time to be in Oriental Mindoro (at least the first time I just a very short visit when we go to Boracay Islands to train the SK Calapan City). My stay gave me additional thoughts on young people and the country.

When I was introduced to the organizers, it was a common ‘kumustahan’. But one thing on that very instance, I learned that they were extremely cool opposite the tension felt in the imperial Manila.

They seemed to be, well, aware of the issues but decide not to dwell on it much.

There were reasons behind the thinking as I always believed. First and foremost, I assumed it’s because they literally far from the political war and second I assume that they didn’t feel the sense of their importance on the matter.

And finding out this level of participation from a youth leader (a Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman, I understood right there and then that even if they don’t intend to distance themselves from political crises in the center of power struggle, they were just literally too distant to be heard.

We went in Oriental Mindoro to conduct one-day training for Sangguniang Kabataan officials who were about in the median age of 19. Being a sought-after speaker-trainer-facilitator, such audience wasn’t new to us. We have been there and done that in dealing with this kind of people—they were elected and they are called ‘honorable’.

I facilitated the team building activities with at least 150 participants. After doing the usual series of challenges we give, I moderated group discussion and then delivered a very short motivational talk on ‘team’.

While I was looking at them one by one, I saw tiredness in them not only because the program was really tough to my mind they were also worrying on where ‘national’ events would take them.

I told myself then: “If only these young people can be given the opportunities to be heard, I bet as one they have something great to say.”

But they didn’t have any.

The reason why I made myself believe on that premise was simple—I trust the strength of chain.

During the team building activities, I have seen how they performed (and enjoyed). And I can say that they were really great individuals, leaders whom you can trust and lean on. And I have seen their power as a team. It was adorable!

However, I must admit that not all did have the same level of participation, as the reality that welcomed me during my conversation the night we arrived. While majority gave 110% of their efforts, negligible number gave 60% passing rate.

These figures were my subjects. And so I discussed the Strength of Chain.

I told my audience: “The strength of chain doesn’t depend on the strong part of it; it depends on the weakest component.”

The same thing is truer, for me, in the national political arena. The ones that are gravely affected by the turmoil are neither those in the administration nor in the opposition but simply those who don’t seem to have part in the war. And at the end of the day, it won’t matter who wins or lose. What matters would be the entire nation whose fault was simply to trust the strength of the chain.

]]> Tue, 02 Aug 2005 08:42:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27121 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/26999
Now, part of the services of my company is graphics design (including business cards, billboard, letterhead, poster layout).

I always believe that what we people presently do add (or should I say must add) to his individuality). Otherwise, efforts won't make things any better.

This is an advice to young people: Always think of what you are presently doin and ask yourself if it adds or would add to your development as a person.

If not, think again. You may be missing the point.]]> Tue, 02 Aug 2005 02:32:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/26999 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27048
www.lloydluna.com

He took up Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communications Engineering at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with distinction as Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Presidential Leadership Awardee, the highest award given by the President.

A recipient of several certificate degrees including Certificate of Course Completed on Leadership and Legislative Governance in the University of the Philippines-Diliman, Certificate on Campus Journalism and School Paper Advising and the Certificate on the First National Students' Conference on Philippine Literature (also in UP), he was named as Youngest International Journalist to cover the XV International AIDS Conference in Bangkok, Thailand in 2004.

In 2001, he established the Network of Campus Journalists of the Philippines where he serves as its Founding Chairman and CEO, the same year when he was cited as Outstanding Student of PUP College of Engineering and Most Outstanding College Consultative Board Member. Passionate to serve the student sector, he organized the Students Network of the Philippines this year.

Fueled by the enthusiasm of really revolutionizing the contemporary print media not only in the country but also around the world, he founded the Network of Journalists INTERNATIONAL, where his subordinates include writers of newspapers from the United States of America, Africa and Europe. Months thereafter, he was selected as one of Top 60 youth leaders of the World and invited to speak at the International Youth Dialogue on Youth Employment and the XV Malente Symposium in Lubeck, Germany.

Distinct as 2002 Catholic Mass Media Awards Finalist for Best Student Organ, awarded as National Leadership Achievement Medalist by the Knights of Rizal Supreme Council and recognized by the Philippine National Police as Leadership Awardee, he worked as Technical Assistant for Youth Affairs in the Office of the President in Malacanang Palace.

At 22, his hilarious antics, contagious energy and enthusiasm to create synergy among the youth has made him a favorite choice as freelance writer to the Manila TIMES, Manila BULLETIN and the Philippine Daily INQUIRER and resource speaker to journalism trainings, leadership seminars and team building workshops across the country. At 23, he worked as the Executive Vice President of POINTER Publishing and Publications Group and as Corporate Communications Manager of TNSEP Events. At present, he runs a PR and Web Company, the LAL Communications Consulting as Founder and Managing Director.

"Ii is not aptitude; it is attitude that brings people to higher altitude..."

A very promising journalist and multi-awarded writer, an experienced speaker and trainer, an environmentalist, a proactive activist and youth parliamentarian, a skillful and multi-talented youth leader of today's generation.
]]> Sun, 31 Jul 2005 16:44:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27048 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27047
With this philosophy and collective ideology born the Philippines’ biggest and fastest growing youth media organization covering a national backbone from Cagayan Valleys to Tawi-tawi with more than 700 campus journalists, college editors and young media professionals: The Network of Campus Journalists of the Philippines (NCJP).

Four years ago, the organization was just an idea. Lloyd A. Luna, then Editor in Chief of 2002 Catholic Mass Media Awards Finalist Spectrum of PUP College of Engineering thought of putting up an exclusive assembly of Editors in Chief of different student publications in the National Capital Region. The main purpose of the group was to regularly conduct a forum and discuss current issues in the institution of learning.

But surprisingly, a group of 15 proactive thinkers took an extra mile to expand its membership involving 170 affiliated student journalists in 2003, within which members of the editorial board already included.

Establishing a network such as this, according to the founding team composed of then editors of DLSU’s Ang Pahayagang Plaridel and La Sallian, UST’s Varsitarian, Adamson University’s Ugnayan, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Makati’s The Makati Collegian, PUP’s Spectrum, Lyceum’s The Independent Sentinel, Ateneo de Manila’s The Guidon, Rizal Technological University’s The Guardian Publication, University of the East’s The Dawn, is never an easy endeavor. It says that “it took us very difficult yet very challenging efforts in meeting and conceptualizing how the idea would work considering different culture of the papers”.

Nonetheless, primarily because of the noble intention and genuine vision set, the organization pushed through and the “explosion” started.

“NCJP envisions itself to be the Center for Excellence in Campus Journalism and Campus Press Development. The organization is founded to inspire and involve young campus journalists to constructively deal with contemporary realities without sacrificing idealism and to produce a new batch of globally competitive and philosophy-centered media practitioners,” Founding Chairman and CEO Lloyd A. Luna said.

He added: We exist to congregate campus journalists of different fields of interests and expertise and create an oracle of shared information and news, ideals and opinions. First, to develop campus journalists' talents, skills and potentials on media leadership grounded on values, philosophy and technical writing trainings. And second, to establish an institutionalized network of campus journalists that would introduce innovation and revitalize drifting media culture.

Marlon Castor, NCJP Founder from the University of Sto. Tomas, included in his draft of the organization’s constitution: It serves as a venue to widen the national artistic consciousness by providing free rein to creative expressions that upholds aesthetic tenets and universal human values.

There are only two basic elements that NCJP was created for: Attitude and Aptitude. With these two combined, the organization believes that “there will be a positive impact in the society as well as well as swift development in journalism”.

For them, student publications serve not just as watchdogs but also, and more importantly, as reflections of the learning institutions. According to the group’s philosophy, “it is our desire to build harmonious relationship between student publication and school administration since they serve a common sector which is the studentry”.

“What we are here for is the idea of building instead of destructing. We established the group to educate our fellow student journalists that attitude matters a lot and it makes or breaks institution or people.”

Tricia Castrodes, one of the members of the Advisory Council who helped put up the group in 2001 said in one of her speeches: “You just don’t imagine how powerful you are if you work together as one. Try imagining it and you’ll see the opportunities ahead of you. But with your great power you should never forget your responsibility and accountability.”

Asked about the projects and programs that they are working on as the most active youth media organization, they said that their basic thrust is to inspire, inform, involve and empower campus journalists. From such thrusts, they introduced initiatives beneficial to develop and equip the “future media practitioners”.

In 2004, the first-ever NCJP Leadership Programme was implemented in a project entitled SOAR 2004: The First NCJP National Leadership and Team Building Congress. It was attended by 75 outstanding editors selected to geographically represent the regions and provinces. With its “empowering effect”, local NCJP chapters were created. Just this year, a follow up initiative called CONVERGENCE 2005, the 2nd National Campus Journalism Congress was implemented through Ugnayan of Adamson University.

There are also other projects that they do and they claim to be “non-traditional”. NCJP Program Director Randy Vitales believes that “we are unique in a sense that we implement programs which are based on the real needs of our constituents and as much as possible we limit making programs for them.” In fact, as part of our empowerment scheme; we let them suggest and conceptualize programs by themselves.

NCJP is the organization behind Biyahe (educational tour for writers), ROAD (Revenue Opportunity through Ads), Lloydeologized Lectures, Writers’ Forum, Breakfast, Philippine Campus Journalism Awards, Verdict 2004, Tik Tak Vote and Broadsheet ExP among others.

With its national operations and initiatives in preparing a “new breed of media”, NCJP remains dedicated to work in the framework of development. In fact, they added that their organization is one of the few existing groups that make an intensive use of communications and information technologies (ICTs). As far as their advocacy on the promotions and development of campus journalism is concerned, they make sure that they go with the trend in technology.

It is in such rationale that in July 4 this year, they launched the Campus Journalism Online, the official web portal of NCJP in a web address www.campusjournalism.tk.

“We are very happy to note that our online initiative has been recognized by and supported by different institutions, student journalists and publications not only in the Philippines but also in other countries as well,” Luna said. “And this project will surely be a continuous support mechanism and inspiration to our young journalists,” he stressed.

Today, as a proactive, attitude-driven, impact oriented, program-based, skills development focused organization of young journalists organized through collaborative ideas of outstanding editors NCJP continues to involve campus journalists in different parts of the country with its solid commitment to empower and mentor the “future media personalities”.

Indeed, with the passion and dedication of the members of Network of Campus Journalists of the Philippines (NCJP), it is but convincing and safe to say that there is still hope for this nation. And in a society where division, hopelessness and desperation prevail, it’s good to know that there is still an organization of attitude and aptitude.
]]> Sat, 30 Jul 2005 09:34:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27047 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27046 By Lloyd A. Luna, Webdeologist

Over the decades, there has been one universal truth about leadership, may it be in the international or local arena. And this truth for the past couple of years has been in fact a common conviction of leaders in the community, government agencies, non-government organizations, youth serving organization and media organizations.

That, in every rise and fall of any organization, there is a leadership behind.

The Philippines is a big organization led by public officials elected at large. And its stories may well reflect how its trusted leaders had performed their duties with of course the participation of its people.

Offhand, analysts claim that we have tried almost all kind of leaders and yet we are still in the middle of nowhere going to nowhere. The point being now is that why, despite the attempt to put different kinds of leaders, the Philippines don’t get much better.

We have tried a dictator that was collectively thrown from power by Edsa 1. Then, we have tried a housewife obviously unknowledgeable of governance.

After that, we have tried a military, who somehow did a satisfying job. Then, we put an actor and then an economist.

What leadership style did they use? Well, logical reasoning tells us that they used styles that were dependent on their nature. History can prove it. The question is: Did it work? Why or why not?

The answer is clear using 80-20 principle—that 80 percent agrees and the other 20 saying otherwise. The issue now, therefore, is the question of the type of leadership that we should adopt and kind of attitude that would compliment the leadership.

Looking at the national leadership arena might confuse us in getting to the bottom of understanding the issue. And so, given at least some proven local organizations, youth groups in particular, we can safely arrive in a convincing conclusion.

The story of the Network of Campus Journalists of the Philippines (CampusJournalism.com) started in a very humble idea of gathering a group of college editors and organize a regular breakfast forum to discuss matters that affect its publishers—the students. However, it has exploded to broader purpose of intensively involving campus journalists on its advocacies.

Today, after four years of its existence, it has tagged as the Philippines’ Biggest and Fastest growing Youth Media Organization with a national backbone from Cagayan Velley to Tawi-tawi.

But it was never an easy journey. There were instances when its existence was challenged by different organizations such as those with radical inclination in politics since the organization is a “proactive” (not reactive) in nature.

Fortunately, it survived. And there is a big “why” behind that—the kind of leadership that was proven working at least to its sphere of influence.

That, Transformational and Servant Leadership can make an organization work.

Transformational Leadership is an approach of leading the organization in such a way that it follows the lead of time. It simply suggests that leadership must be at par with the change of time and environment and that there are only two options: innovate or evaporate.

Lots of people including leaders and members think that it is ok not to change, almost the same way as saying that they fear changes. But change is inevitable. And therefore, everyone should be open to the idea.

The same is true with leadership. Lots of organizations have failed not because it had not-so-good leaders but because they got transformational leaders—leaders who by heart and action are willing to pay the price of leading in accordance to its time.

In any part of the world (as it is truer in any part of the country), change happens in a blink of an eye as if what is true today may no longer be true tomorrow. And this becomes a problem that requires an immediate attention. Not all important are urgent and not all urgent are important. But decision-makers must learn to draw the line between urgent and important. Otherwise, the organization would be moving to slow that it dies of natural death.

Decision-makers as transformational leaders must also learn the art of managing decisions. The 80-20 principle says that survival depends on 20 percent decision making and 80 decision managing.

Each decision made, therefore, is not the end of the story for transformational leaders (as applied in any organization). Every decision must be managed according to the call of time and instance.

In the Philippines, roughly 90 percent of businesses registered in a year fails and only around 10 percent at least survive within that period. But of these failed businesses, at least 80 percent are good decision-makers. Imagine if these business leaders become transformational, then they could have managed their good decisions and survived.

Tackling the business sector is different from leading youth organizations at least within the framework of management level. But same principle is true to some extent. In fact, leadership in school for example gives its leaders only a year to prove something great. This simply means that the “closure” of one’s term (or organization) pressures him to do things that fast. And so this requires non-traditional style in leadership that is transformational in nature

But being a transformational leader doesn’t make a person any greater than making its members see that he is exercising servant leadership. What good does it get if one leads by mandate of his position and not by the mandate of the sworn willingness to serve its constituents?

Servant leadership is not asking the question: What kind of leadership should I exercise as a leader; it is asking the question: What kind of service should I render as a servant?

It is from this premise that organizations grow and mature. Any leader should be an example and epitome of humility. What adds credibility to leaders and their leadership is trust and confidence of their members. Therefore, adding value to them, their efforts and ideas would make them feel a sense of belonging.
As a role model, members must see in their leader the vision, commitment, passion and dedication to serve, not to be served. And it is by this principle that a leader is treated great, respected and honored.

Almost in every leadership is a public trust. It must be taken good care of otherwise it will be taken away. For those who realize this can choose on of the futures: to be transformation and servant or traditional and autocratic.

In every rise and fall of any organization, there is a leadership behind. At the end of the day, it is about choice of an individual that makes or breaks him and his organization.]]> Fri, 15 Jul 2005 09:29:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27046 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27254
For all you know, I don't buy such idea. For me, everything is a matter of proper understanding and "diskarte" how campus journalists can make the best out of it. Besides, the Philippine Legislators, for public information, took years of dabate for its passage. Question now is: Are they going to trash it?

Obviously not. Therefore, campus journalists must be wiser than these legislators. They must learn to maximize what presently exists and get all the "favorables".

Following is the reason why I love the Law. If only young journalists understand this regulation, they would see the beauty of the law.]

RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CAMPUS JOURNALISM ACT OF 1991

INTRODUCTION
Pursuant to Section 9 of Republic Act No. 7079, otherwise known as
the "Campus Journalism Act of 1991," the following rules and
regulations for the effective implementation of the said Act are
hereby promulgated.

RULE I
Title
SECTION 1. Title. - This body of rules shall be known as the Rules
and Regulations for the Implementation of the Campus Journalism Act
of 1991 or "RULES," for short.

RULE II
State Policy
SEC. 1. Declaration of Policy. - It has been declared a State Policy
to uphold and protect the freedom of the press even at the campus
level and to promote the development and growth of campus journalism
as a means of strengthening ethical values, encouraging critical and
creative thinking, and developing moral character and personal
discipline of the Filipino youth. In furtherance of this policy, the
State shall undertake various programs and projects aimed at
improving the journalistic skills of the students concerned and
promoting responsible and free journalism.
It is, therefore, the duty of the Department of Education, Culture
and Sports (DECS), school/college/university heads, campus paper
teacher-advisers, and personnel involved in the campus journalism
program in the elementary, secondary and tertiary levels of
education to support and promote the campus journalism program
policies and objectives under Republic Act No. 7079 and existing
laws embodied as principles in the Constitution.

RULE III
Definition of Terms
SEC. 1. Definition of Terms. - For a better understanding of this
Act, terms which are used therein are hereby defined or explained.
a) School. - An institution for learning in the elementary,
secondary or tertiary level composed of the studentry,
administration, faculty and non-faculty personnel;
b) Student Publication. - The issue of any printed material that is
independently published by, and which meets the needs and interests
of the studentry;
c) Student Journalists. - Any bona fide student or enrolled for the
current semester or term, who has passed or met the qualifications
and standards of the editorial board. He must likewise maintain a
satisfactory academic standing;
d) Editorial Board. - In the tertiary level, the editorial board
shall be composed of student journalists who have qualified in
placement examinations. In the case of elementary and high school
levels, the editorial board shall be composed of a duly appointed
faculty adviser, the editor who qualified and a representative of
the Parents-Teachers' Association, who will determine the editorial
policies to be implemented by the editor and staff members of the
student publication concerned.
At the tertiary level, the editorial board may include a publication
adviser at the option of its members.
e) Editorial Policies. - A set of guidelines by which a student
publication is operated and managed, taking into account pertinent
laws as well as the school administration's policies. Said
guidelines shall determine the frequency of publication, the manner
of selecting articles and features and other similar matters.

RULE IV
Student Publication
SEC. 1. All educational institutions on the elementary, secondary
and tertiary levels, public or private shall be encouraged to
establish a student publication.

SEC. 2. Student Publication. - There shall be three categories of
student publications, namely: a) elementary level student
publication; b) secondary level student publication; and c) tertiary
level student publication. Once the publication is established, the
editorial board shall freely determine its editorial policies and
manage the publication's funds.

SEC. 3. The members of the editorial board of the tertiary student
publication shall be responsible to the school/college/university,
to third parties for its decisions, actions, policies and legal
consequences arising from such.

SEC. 4. Aims and Purposes of the Student Publications. - Student
Publications shall be utilized to train interested students in a)
the application of the communication arts in journalism; b) the
basic mechanism and technical skills in journalism; c) the
responsibilities and privileges in journalism in relation with the
contents of articles to be published; d) the use of the student
publication in support of the educational development of the
learner/student, the school, the community and the country; e) train
interested students in the application of the art and science of
journalism for technological advancement; f) develop intelligent and
responsible student leadership and good citizenship in a free and
democratic society; g) serve as a channel for unifying all members
for the school and the community towards desirable educational and
cultural development objectives; h) serve as a pool of all learning
experiences of student journalists; i) advocate social consciousness
and uphold the interests of the Filipino people; and j) advance
student's rights and responsibilities as well as promote their
general welfare.

RULE IV
Financing Student Publication
SEC. 1. Funding of Student Publication. - For public elementary and
secondary school, publication fees, subsidy sourced from savings
realized from the school's appropriations, revenues realized from
donations and grants, and advertisements shall be the sources of
funding for the student publication.
For private schools, publication fees, revenues realized from
donations and grants, and advertisements shall be the sources of
funding for student publications. Publication fees from the students
shall be collected during enrolment period.
In both public and private schools, all student publication funds
shall be automatically released to the student publication staff one
month after the last day of enrolment.

SEC. 2. Preparation of Student Publication Budget. - The editorial
board, with the assistance of the student publication staff, shall
prepare the student publication budget for each semester/year. The
budget shall be posted on the school bulletin board and published in
the student publication. The budget shall include expenses for the
printing costs of the student publication, transportation and needs
of the staff and the teacher-adviser during their work at the
printing press, office and photo supplies, attendance of the student
publication representatives at the annual divisional, regional,
national press conferences or workshops, honoraria/allowances for
staffers and teacher-adviser, and other incidental expenses.
Disbursements of student publication fund shall be made according to
accounting and auditing regulations.

SEC. 3. Publication Fee. -
a) The editorial board, in coordination with the school
administration, may provide a mechanism for the collection of
publication fees from the students. The publication fee shall be
determined by the editorial board in consultation with the student
body. In the private elementary and secondary schools, the editorial
board shall determine the publication fee for each individual
student in consultation with the student body. In the public
elementary and secondary schools, the publication fee for each
individual student shall in no case be more than what is provided
for in DECS Order No. 40, s. 1988.
The publication funds shall be deposited in the account of the
student publication in an authorized depositary bank through at
least two (2) authorized signatories of the editorial board.

SEC. 4. Printing of the Student Publication. - The printing of the
student publication by a private printer shall be conducted by the
editorial board and the student publication staff through canvass or
public bidding.

SEC. 5. Financial Reports of Expenses. - A financial report of
expenses shall be prepared by the editorial board and student
publication staff at the close of the school year for the elementary
and secondary levels, and every semester for the tertiary level
properly audited by a COA/authorized auditor for the public schools.
For the private schools, a certified public accountant shall
properly audit the expenditures based on the approved budget of the
editorial board. Thereafter, the audited summary financial statement
shall be published in the student publication at the end of the
school term.

SEC. 6. Use of Student Publication Funds. - Publication fees,
savings, donations, grants and other funds collected from other
sources for the student publication shall be for its exclusive use.
The money collected shall not be spent for purposes other than those
cited in Section 2 of this Rule. Violation of this rule by the
editorial board, any student-staff, faculty-adviser, and/or school
administrator/official shall be cause for administrative and/or
criminal action against the violator.

RULE VI
Publication Adviser
SEC. 1. Publication Adviser. - The faculty adviser of a tertiary
student publication shall be selected by the school administration
from a list of recomendees submitted by the publication staff. The
function of the publication adviser shall be one of technical
guidance.

In the elementary and secondary levels, the teacher-adviser,
exercising special parental authority over student staffers who are
minors shall, jointly with the Parents-Teachers Association, be held
fully responsible for the contents of the student publication.

SEC. 2. Working/Advising Load. - In the public elementary and
secondary schools, student publication advising task/assignment
shall be considered as one (1) teaching/work load.

RULE VII
Selection of Staff Members
SEC. 1. Selection of Student Staff Members. - The selection of the
chief editor and other members of the staff of tertiary student
publication shall be through competitive examinations prepared,
conducted and supervised by a committee composed of a representative
of the school administration, one faculty member, one mass media
practitioner who is acceptable to both (school administration and
editorial board) and two past editors to be chosen by the outgoing
editorial board.
Secondary and elementary student publication staffers should pass a
qualifying examination conducted by a committee composed of the
student publication adviser, who shall act as chairperson, the past
student-editor as vice-chairman, one (1) faculty member, and two (2)
former student-editors.

RULE VIII
Security of Tenure
SEC. 1. Student Staffers. - A member of the student publication
staff must maintain his/her satisfactory standing in order to retain
membership in the staff. A student shall not be expelled or
suspended solely on the basis of articles he/she has written, or on
the basis of the performance of his/her duties in the publication
staff.

RULE IX
Press Conferences/Training Seminars
SEC. 1. Press Conferences and Training Seminars. - The Department of
Education, Culture and Sports shall sponsor periodic competitions,
press conferences and training seminars/workshops in which student-
editors/writers and teacher-advisers of student publications of the
elementary, secondary and tertiary levels shall participate. Such
activities shall be held on the institutional, divisional and
regional levels culminating with the holding of the annual national
elementary, secondary or tertiary school press conferences in places
of historical and or cultural interest in the country.

SEC. 2. Expenses of Student Publication Staff and their Teacher-
Adviser at Press Conferences and Training Seminars. - Expenses
relative to the attendance of the student publication staff and
their teacher-adviser in the divisional, regional and national press
conferences and training seminars shall be subsidized from the
student publication funds and from appropriations when funds are
available.

RULE X
Tax Exemption
SEC. 1. Tax Exemption. - Pursuant to Paragraph 4, Section 4, Article
XIV of the Constitution, all grants, endowments, donations or
contributions used actually, directly and exclusively for the
promotion of campus journalism as provided for in R.A. 7079 shall be
exempted from donor's or gift tax.

RULE XI
Appropriations
SEC. 1. Appropriations. - For the initial year of implementation,
the sum of five million pesos (P5,000,000.00) is authorized by R.A.
7079 to be charged against the savings of the Department of
Education, Culture and Sports. Thereafter, such amount as may be
necessary shall be included in the General Appropriations Act.

RULE XII
General Provisions
SEC. 1. The Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) shall
help ensure and facilitate the proper carrying out of the
Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 7079. It
shall also act on cases on appeal brought before it.
The DECS regional office shall have the original jurisdiction over
cases as a result of the decisions, actions, and policies of the
editorial board of a school within its area of administrative
responsibility. It shall conduct investigations and hearings on
these cases and shall report its decision of each case within
fifteen (15) days after the completion of the resolution of each
case.

SEC. 2. The Secretary of Education, Culture and Sports may amend
these "Rules" when there are compelling reasons for amendments
provided that any amendment shall be made in consultation with the
representatives of duly recognized student journalism associations
and adviser associations as well as representatives of the
administration, and provided further that all amendments shall be in
accordance with R.A. 7079.

RULE XIII
Effectivity

SEC. 1. Effectivity. - These Rules and Regulation implementing the
Campus Journalism Act of 1991 shall take effect immediately after
publication and circulation in a DECS Order to all the public and
private schools in the country.
]]> Sun, 12 Jun 2005 07:19:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27254 http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27946
Just tonight, I signed up in POYNTER. i've seen their sincerity in building and developing journalists. If you wish to see my mebership the link is at http://www.poynter.org/profile/profile.asp?user=316669
]]> Thu, 12 May 2005 09:31:00 EDT http://LLOYDLUNA.tigblog.org/post/27946