The University of the Philippines Open University Alumni Association, Inc. (UPOUAAI) conducted a three-day webinar, titled, “Pagsasanay ng mga Tagapagsanay sa DokyuWento at Mobile Journalism,” for fifteen teachers from the City Schools Division of Cabuyao.
Held online on 11, 18, and 25 July 2026, the webinar was designed to enhance the competencies of teacher-coaches in documentary storytelling and mobile journalism, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to prepare students who will participate in this year’s DokyuWento and Mobile Journalism competitions.
Among the participants were 15 teachers from the City Schools Division of Cabuyao who expressed their commitment to applying the knowledge and skills gained from the training in strengthening campus journalism programs and preparing their students for upcoming competitions.
Dr. Jerry Donato, UPOU alumnus, served as the resource speaker.
Dr. Jerry Donato, a distinguished UPOU alumnus and prominent journalist, served as the resource speaker and trainer throughout the three-day webinar.
Drawing from his extensive experience in journalism, Dr. Donato guided participants through the principles of documentary storytelling, scriptwriting, visual communication, ethical journalism, and the effective use of mobile devices in producing compelling and impactful multimedia stories. Through a series of lectures, demonstrations, workshops, and collaborative activities, the participants developed practical skills that will enable them to effectively coach student journalists and content creators in producing authentic, creative, and socially relevant outputs.
Beyond its educational objectives, the webinar also carried a meaningful advocacy. The proceeds from the training will be donated to students of the University of the Philippines Open University who need internet connectivity and communication allowances, helping ensure that they can continue their studies despite financial challenges.
Dr. Jerry Donato, the UPOUAAI Board of Trustees, with the teacher participants.
The success of the three-day webinar was made possible through the dedicated leadership and collaborative efforts of the officers and members of the Board of Trustees of the UPOU Alumni Association, Inc. Spearheading the initiative was Ms. Tanya L. Capuli, President of UPOUAAI, together with Jonathan F. Bernabe, Corporate Treasurer and Chairperson of the Committee on Programs and Events. They were ably supported by Board of Trustees members Ms. Hyacinth M. Celso, Mr. Diomedes Cariño, and Ms. Andrea Supremo, whose commitment and teamwork ensured the successful planning and implementation of the training program.
The initiative underscores the UPOU Alumni Association, Inc.’s commitment to promoting excellence in journalism education while fostering a spirit of service among its alumni. By empowering teachers and extending assistance to UPOU students in need, the association continues to make a meaningful contribution to both the education sector and the wider community.
Contributed by UPOUAAI | Edited by Anna Cañas-Llamas and Primo G. Garcia
