The story behind the stories: Making READiscover happen
MANILA, Philippines — There is a different kind of fulfillment that comes from hearing students say, “May dyaryo pa rin po pala?” and seeing their reaction when they see one.
When people think about media organizations, they usually picture the pressure of headlines, adrenaline of breaking news, or frontpage-worthy stories. But as the Education Lead of The Philippine STAR, journalism, for me, goes beyond stories and deadlines. It also encompasses impactful conversations, building connections, and shaping a generation that can think critically and discern truth from disinformation.
In an era where information proliferates rapidly and attention spans are fleeting, it is humbling to witness young people pause, read, ask questions, and cultivate curiosity. This underscores the importance of the READiscover Program — not only for the students, but also for me. It grounds me in the responsibility I carry every single day as someone working in the media industry.
Through this program, I bring journalism closer to students. I want them to see that news isn’t something distant or intimidating. Rather, it’s alive, relatable, and a tool they need in their everyday lives.
Media literacy
Students are now overwhelmed by information online. Not everything we read or see on the internet is accurate, not everything that goes viral is true, and not every source is credible.
This is where media literacy becomes essential.
Through READiscover, we explain how stories are carefully curated and fact-checked, how The STAR newspapers are printed, and why accuracy is worth the effort. More than anything, I ask them to be curious: to question what they see and look beyond the algorithms.
I’m fortunate enough to help bring these moments to life, from planning to execution. Part of my work involves coordinating with schools, organizing campus visits, and ensuring every session is meaningful and engaging for students.
But honestly, beyond logistics, the best part of the job is connection.
Every school visit feels different. Some students are naturally outspoken and confident, while others quietly observe until they slowly gain confidence. One minute, they’ll catch me off-guard with incredibly sharp questions about fake news, press freedom, how The STAR adapts to the ever-changing media milieu, and the responsibility of journalists. Then there are moments when they simply get thrilled after seeing a newspaper for the first time, and how it is made. For many of them, it is immeasurable to discover the amount of hard work, dedication, and precise coordination that goes into producing a newspaper every single day.
For others, it’s their first personal encounter with journalism beyond social media. It ignites their interest in writing, photography, broadcasting, and communication.
Reaching communities
READiscover didn’t just stay within The STAR’s headquarters; it reached schools far beyond Metro Manila, traveling to Baguio, Mountain Province, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao to provide essential learning materials to students and educators with the fullest support of Ayala Multi-Purpose Cooperative. Many of these schools struggle and have limited access to diverse information sources. Yet, every single destination left behind unforgettable memories and brought to light stories that truly deserve to be shared.
We brought Truthteller Kits packed with tote bags, notebooks, pens, umbrellas, tumblers, and fans directly to our partner schools. To support their daily learning, every student received annual access to The STAR’s e-paper. We also equipped the schools with physical copies of the newspaper, provided both students and teachers with media literacy modules, and opened doors for them to participate in READiscover’s competitions, face-to-face news and feature writing seminars, and essential lectures on fake news and AI detection.
Students and teachers’ testimonies
“Over time, my confidence improved. I became more willing to read aloud, share my ideas, and actively participate in discussions. I also noticed improvement in my output, as I was able to identify key details, express my opinions, and apply basic critical thinking when evaluating information.” — John Paul Jacaban, Acacia Elementary School in Davao City
“READiscover showed us that learning doesn’t have to be boring. It can be fun, meaningful, and full of discovery.” — Ashley Shane Ticar, Polopiña National High School in Iloilo
“As a faculty club president, I was able to share what I learned from the program during our School Learning Action Cell, where I taught my colleagues how to spot fake news, scams, and phishing.” — John Paul Arellano, Santolan High School in Pasig City
“Through this program, I learned to listen more to my students’ voices, value their insights, and create a classroom environment where curiosity and expression are encouraged.” — Corrine Jane Gerona, Communal Elementary School in Davao City
These testimonies are proof that READiscover has touched the lives of our students and teachers. These journeys show me that impact isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it is also in a student eagerly flipping through a newspaper, enthusiastically raising their hand during a discussion, or sharing their newfound aspiration.
A lifelong commitment
This program represents a lifelong commitment to education and truth, a bridge connecting media with the new generation. As someone who grew up with a newspaper in our home every day, this work feels incredibly personal. Long before I joined The Philippine STAR, journalism was already deeply etched into my heart. I spent my youth competing in journalism contests and immersing myself in writing for my university publication. I never imagined that years later, I would not only be part of a major media company, but actually leading a program that brings the power of journalism to students all across the country.
In many ways, the program has changed me. It taught me how to connect with different people, communicate with empathy, and understand the importance of showing up to communities.
If there’s one thing I hope READiscover leaves to the student, it’s this: truth still matters.
I hope students learn the true value of critical thinking, diligent verification, and responsible online sharing. I hope they remember that journalism isn't just about reporting the news, but about serving the truth to the people.
More than anything, I hope the program cultivates curiosity.
Curiosity sparks learning, learning fosters awareness, and awareness empowers individuals to think critically and make meaningful contributions to society. Every school visit concludes with a familiar scene: students waving goodbye with copies of The Philippine STAR, taking photos with classmates, and eagerly discussing what they have learned that day.
These fleeting moments capture something far greater than a simple visit. They embody hope, as these are the future writers, educators, changemakers, journalists, and leaders of society.
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Vince Jasper Hibe is a media and education advocate with a strong passion for journalism, youth empowerment, and meaningful storytelling. Deeply involved in The Philippine STAR’s educational initiatives, he helps bridge the gap between media and the next generation through programs that promote media literacy, campus journalism, and critical thinking among students across the country.
