The ‘GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series’ kicked off in Mindanao from January 22 to 25, 2025.
With a mission to help young voters arrive at informed decisions and fight misinformation and disinformation, the Masterclass visited the Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in General Santos City, Holy Cross of Davao College in Davao City, Liceo de Cagayan University in Cagayan de Oro City, and Central Mindanao University in Bukidnon.
The Masterclass featured GMA Integrated News journalists Tina Panganiban-Perez, Lou Albano, and Ted Ortiz and Synergy sports commentator and analyst, Martin “Coach Hammer” Antonio.
Some students share what they think of the initiative of GMA Integrated News and Regional TV and Synergy:
“The speakers surely gave an impact to me as a youth who always uses different social media platforms to gain knowledge and information. Also, it gave me insights on how to really have an access on accurate information through being aware and selective on different things we see online.”
Cyndrelle Unico, Animal Science, Central Mindanao University
“I am thankful for the GMA Masterclass because I’ve learned some things that I need to consider in the upcoming election. I’ve learned that we should be mindful on what we see online because maybe it’s false news. I’ve also learned that we should need to be knowledgeable of who we are going to vote because every single vote is powerful and it matters.”
- Meah Jane Sagubay, Environmental Science, Central Mindanao University
“Isa sa mga natutunan ko is yung importance ng voting wisely. Just because maganda ‘yung sinasabi nilang ‘plataporma’ di ibig sabihin magpapadala ka agad sa mga matatamis na salita. Kasi I think ‘yan ‘yung tine-take advantage nila ‘yung mabilis tayong maniwala lalong lalo na sa mga uneducated people. Kaya mag-fact check muna, do further background checking sa candidates that you are vying for and lalong lalo na sa mga post na nakikita ninyo online. Sabi nga nila, “lamang ang may alam.” Kaya if we are aiming to have better governance, therefore, we should aim to be better and wiser voters.”
- Jhudiel Christine Javier, Agriculture, Central Mindanao University
“What stood out to me the most were the lessons shared by the four speakers. Despite the fact that we were mostly just listening, the session never felt boring. It was insightful and engaging, and I found myself genuinely learning a lot, especially about the importance of making the right choices. One particular message that resonated with me was the idea that a single good choice can change the world. It made me reflect on the kind of decisions I make daily and how these small actions can ripple into something much bigger. This session wasn’t just another requirement to tick off the list, it was a moment of realization. It reminded me that we all owe it to ourselves, to each other, and to the world to create meaningful change. And as part of the NSTP program, I feel inspired to take those lessons forward.”
- Jenz Celerose Hontanosas, College of Forestry and Environmental Science, Central Mindanao University
"I learned how important it is to vote wisely and check the background of the candidates we choose because our votes shape the future of our country. It taught me to stop spreading fake news, always fact-check, and choose good leaders. I am grateful for the lessons that showed me how I can make a positive impact on our country. As citizens, we must remember: Dapat Tototo!"
- Syvelle Dayonot, Central Mindanao University
"It was really nice to see the Filipino culture and value of pakikipagkapwa clearly evident in the efforts of the GMA Masterclass to bring professionals and students together to learn about combating misinformation and disinformation, uniting on the common ground of striving for a better, shared society by being truthful and responsible citizens, especially in the upcoming elections."
- Cherry Carmona, AB Psychology - 4, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
"The Masterclass 2025 at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, organized by GMA, empowers young voters with insights on HALALAN 2025 and future elections. It combines expert discussions on leadership and personal growth to inspire informed, responsible choices for a brighter national future. By fostering critical thinking and self-awareness, the program highlights the vital role of young voters in shaping the country’s leadership."
- George Vidallon, AB Psychology - 4, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
"Voting is more than a right; it is a duty to shape a better future. It calls for wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to truth. By choosing leaders with discernment and rejecting misinformation, we contribute to a peaceful and meaningful election process. Let us all strive to be responsible citizens, setting an example for others to follow. A truthful election begins with informed and honest voters who understand the power of their choice."
- Ralph Omapas, BS Architecture - 3, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
"This masterclass, particularly their commitment to journalistic integrity in this complex media landscape, served as a powerful reminder of the crucial role we, as youth, play in upholding truth and ensuring an informed society. This experience has not only enhanced my media literacy but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility to critically evaluate information and stand for what I believe is true."
- Edleigh Ignacio, AB Psychology - 4, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
"The GMA's tagline, 'Dapat Totoo Lang,' underlines the need to fight misinformation and deception online. With their Masterclass series, young voters become more savvy when it comes to electing officials, as the initiative helps them understand the paramount importance of being vigilant and politically aware, especially now that the midterm election approaches."
- Clayd M. Caburnay, BS Architecture - 3, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
