Junior Mass Communication students from Silliman University recently visited PAGEONE Group for a study and exposure trip designed to introduce them to the real-world practice and depth of public relations, marking an important step in their journey toward becoming future communication professionals.
The visit aimed to bridge classroom learning with industry experience, giving students a deeper understanding of how public relations functions beyond theory, shaping reputation, influencing public discourse, and building meaningful connections between institutions and the communities they serve.
The exposure trip opened with welcome remarks from Mr. Vonj Tingson, Group President and COO of PAGEONE Group, who highlighted the importance of initiatives like this in shaping future professionals.
“That’s why it’s a very important yung initiative ng Silliman. You get to visit different organizations, we get to tell you our story,” Tingson said, emphasizing the value of shared learning between academe and industry.
During the session, Dr. Ron Jabal, APR, Chairman and CEO of PAGEONE Group, shared valuable insights on the evolving role of public relations and the responsibility that comes with managing reputation.
“The motto of this agency is: Reputation is our license to operate. We will not be able to operate without a good reputation,” Dr. Jabal shared, underscoring the ethical foundation of the PR profession.
“That reputation precedes you. It is our role to help governments, private institutions, NGOs, and the private sector ensure that their brand is always on point. And that’s why, as communication students, you have a very bright future ahead of you,” he added.
“We are very thankful that Silliman University continues to visit us. This is our way of helping future PR leaders and, hopefully, inspiring you to join what I consider the most powerful profession in the land: public relations.”
He emphasized a core principle of PR:
“PR is not about protecting power. It is about connecting power with people. It turns voices into action and stories into solutions.”
In addition to learning about PAGEONE’s core public relations functions, best practices, and real-world strategies, the students were also briefed by Jeffrey Osoc, HR Manager of PAGEONE Group, on the company’s internship program, positioning PAGEONE as a potential training ground for Silliman University students who wish to gain hands-on PR experience in the future.
The visit reinforced PAGEONE Group’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of communication practitioners by providing meaningful exposure, professional mentorship, and possible internship opportunities, ensuring that students enter the industry equipped not only with skills but with purpose and ethical grounding.
Through initiatives like this, PAGEONE Group continues to support academic institutions in preparing students for the dynamic and impactful world of public relations.