'Eere Tayo!': Julius Segovia's book aims to counter fake news, advocates truth-telling

Julius Segovia, a former broadcast journalist and now an educator, has published a practical workbook titled "Eere Tayo!" aimed at training young journalists in an era of rampant fake news. The term "Eere Tayo!" is commonly used in broadcast newsrooms to signify that a story is about to air. Segovia explains that the workbook employs an experiential learning approach, going beyond a mere compilation of his experiences. It is designed to allow "students to learn not only by reading but by experiencing how journalism works in the real world." At its core, the workbook aims to empower "future communicators to think critically, verify information, uphold ethical journalism, and become responsible storytellers in an age where truth matters more than ever." The idea for "Eere Tayo!" originated over a decade ago when Segovia began training campus journalists and school paper advisers. He realized the scarcity of journalism reference materials grounded in the realities of the Philippine media industry and specifically tailored for Filipino learners. His goal was to create a workbook that is easily understandable, relatable, practical, and conversational for both students and teachers. Segovia's workbook arrives at a time when the work of legitimate journalists is being questioned and attacked, even by some high-ranking officials. The media landscape is rapidly evolving, with social media platforms flooded with misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda. Against this backdrop, "Eere Tayo!" seeks to educate and equip future journalists with the skills and courage needed to stand firm and defend the truth. "Future journalists must learn how to verify facts, think critically, and report responsibly," Segovia stated. "These are skills best developed through the guidance of experienced practitioners who understand the value of accuracy, fairness, and ethical journalism." The workbook is not solely intended for those pursuing traditional television or radio careers. Its broader objective is to equip "the next generation of campus journalists, broadcasters, and digital storytellers with the knowledge and practical skills they need to become discerning communicators and responsible defenders of truth." Segovia acknowledges, "Now more than ever, the fight against fake news begins with well-trained storytellers." The lessons in "Eere Tayo!" are drawn from Segovia's over two decades of experience in the media industry, encompassing insights from both successes and mistakes in news gathering and reporting. Furthermore, the workbook features contributions from respected media practitioners, industry experts, and Segovia's colleagues, who share inspiring messages, practical advice, and insights from their own professional journeys, making it a collective effort to guide and inspire the next generation of journalists.