SunStar Junior Journo 2026 Launches with Expanded Training for Young Journalists
The third annual Junior Journo program commenced on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at its new venue, SM Seaside City Cebu. This year's opening session attracted more than 40 enthusiastic participants, marking the beginning of a comprehensive five-month lecture series designed to cultivate the next generation of media professionals.
Building Confident and Ethical Storytellers
Now in its third year, the Junior Journo initiative continues its mission to train confident, ethical, and skilled storytellers. Through hands-on, output-based training, participants are introduced to the fundamentals of journalism, including paragraph structure and professional writing techniques. The program emphasizes building a supportive community of young journalists who are prepared to navigate the evolving media landscape.
The series opened with a News Writing Workshop led by Nestor Ramirez, a seasoned media executive with extensive experience in newsroom leadership, academic training, and youth journalism advocacy. Ramirez, who has worked as a journalism educator for nearly two decades, is also the founder of SunStar's Junior Journo program, bringing invaluable expertise to the training sessions.
Adapting to Digital Media Changes
Over the past two years, the Junior Journo program has successfully adapted to the rapid changes in digital media while maintaining a strong emphasis on accuracy and truth in reporting. Organizers highlight that this adaptability ensures participants are equipped with relevant skills for modern journalism, blending traditional principles with contemporary practices.
The move to SM Seaside City Cebu is a strategic decision aimed at providing participants with broader learning opportunities. The new venue allows for coverage of diverse topics, including sustainability efforts, cultural events, and commercial activities within the mall, offering real-world experience in a dynamic environment.
Expert Coaching Across Multiple Disciplines
This year's program features a team of experienced coaches specializing in various journalism disciplines. The coaching lineup includes:
- Luis Quibranza for Feature Writing
- Juan Carlo De Vela for Photojournalism
- Luel Galarpe for Sports Writing
- Mildred V. Galarpe for TV Production
- Clark Kimberly "DJ KimYat" Pasu-it for Radio Production
This diverse team ensures that participants receive comprehensive training across multiple media formats, from print to broadcast.
A Commitment to Youth Development and Media Literacy
SunStar Junior Journo is a youth development and media literacy initiative by SunStar Cebu, targeting high school and college students. The program provides practical experience in journalism, helping young individuals develop critical thinking and communication skills essential for both personal and professional growth. By fostering media literacy, the initiative aims to empower the youth to become informed and responsible contributors to society.
