XUDevCom alumni in media took center stage on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at the DevCom Studio during the Alumni Talks Series. These distinguished alumni had a unique mission—to share their experiences and wisdom with the incoming freshmen embarking on DEVCOM 1: Introduction to Development Communication.

Zeniel Cahatol, who has made a name for himself as a prominent voice on Bombo Radyo Philippines, expressed his gratitude for how his DevCom background has not only enabled him to report news but also to be a bridge towards finding solutions to pressing issues. He remarked, “Dako ug tabang sa ako ang akong pagka DevCom (graduate) nga dili lamang maghatud ug balita, apan mahimong tulay usab para maghatag ug solusyon (sa mga problema).”

Jessa Labininay-Castillo, known as “Inday Yssa” on Wild FM, emphasized the power of communication as a force for good. She shared, “Indeed, communication is power. (As a DevCom graduate) I was given the platform to extend help and public service.”

Ryan Tulba, popularly recognized as “Tina Ryan” on Win Radio, emphasized the dual role of entertainment and education in her profession. She said, “While giving entertainment to the listeners, as a DevCom graduate, I also see this as an opportunity to subtly inject educational information.”

Samantha Bagayas, who joined the event remotely via Zoom and works with Rappler, underscored the all-encompassing nature of DevCom. She noted, “DevCom is embedded in so many things and so many fields that we do. (As a DevCom grad, you learn that) aside from reporting their stories [people in the community], you also help provide solutions [to make their lives better].”

The event served as a testament to the far-reaching impact of Development Communication and how it equips its graduates with not only the skills to inform but also the tools to effect positive change in society.

The DevCom Alumni Talks Series continues to inspire the next generation of communicators and changemakers.