Blogging as Journalism

A forum aiming to shed light on the issue of blogging as a form of journalism was conducted 4 pm today.

Mr. Rollando Fernadez, Senior Editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI) Northern Luzon and professor of the University of the Philippines Baguio (UPB), gave a short talk on the role that blogging plays in the development of news today.

He affirmed that “Yes! Blogging is journalism. The future is there.” He further added that blogging has helped journalists in the analysis of issues and especially in the production of community papers wherein limited funding is often the problem.

“Blogging has a bright future. You can become your own publisher…in 5 years time.” he said. He also added that readers can get more information in blogs since “ Blogging democratizes the flow of new. ” Readers can react though their comments and tips about an article thus allowing the participation of more people.

As for the issue of blogging signaling the death of the printing industry, Fernandez reiterated that the on-line and print version of news often compliment each other although he admitted that the on-line version has its advantages in terms of faster updating of the news.

He also added that although blogging has its advantages, he also warms that publishers of entries must also be responsible with regards to what they write. Honesty and fairness must be exercised. And refraining from plagiarism must be observed. Bloggers must always proper ethics as it more important than skills.

Students of Journalism 113 (On-line Journalism) attended the forum in room 204 of the University of the Philippines Baguio.