25/07/2025
๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ | The Missing Piece of the Puzzle
National Campus Press Freedom Day
July 25 marks the annual observance of National Campus Press Freedom Day, established through Republic Act No. 11440 signed in 2019. The law recognizes the role of campus journalism in upholding freedom of speech and the press within schools and universities.
In the bigger picture of democracy, the campus press is a vital piece of the puzzle. It may seem small compared to national and international media institutions, but without it, the picture of truth is incomplete. Student journalists are the ones who observe closely, question bravely, and tell the stories often left in the margins. Every time they are silenced, something notable goes missing not just in news coverage, but observing accountability and integrity within the school and campuses.
Yet across many campuses today, that puzzle piece is often pushed aside.
Many student publications continue to face noticeable forms of suppression through lack of funding, absence of support, or limitations on what issues may be covered. In some cases, those in higher positions within and outside the institution, though perhaps well-meaning, unintentionally interfere with the editorial independence of student publications. Instead of guiding, some end up drawing lines that restrict instead of nurturing the student voice. It's rarely overt, but it is deeply felt by young writers who simply want to amplify the truth.
These situations burden the campus press in its role as a watchdog of truth within the campus.
If students cannot speak up against unfair systems, where will change begin? If the campus press is not free to shed light on issues that matter, such as corruption, exploitation, or unjust policies, who will speak for the student body?
Campus journalism is not an extracurricular activity nor a mere addition to academic life but an essential part of democracy in our institutions. The student paper is where critical thinking is sharpened, where the youth first learn to question with courage and write with purpose. It is often the first home of truth-telling.
On this National Campus Press Freedom Day, letโs ask ourselves: what kind of picture are we building if we leave this piece out? Support campus publications. Respect editorial independence. Recognize that student journalists are not preparing for the real world but already a part of it.
Because the truth is not protected by laws alone.
It is protected by the people who continue to write, tell, broadcast it even when they are told not to.
Written by: Ma. Francesca Bueno, Senior Editor
