Written By Jeffry Carillo

On June 2, 2021, another OrComference orbited the corners of UP Manila.

Axis: One Society, One Communication brought three stellar speakers of their respective fields beginning with Ms. Inday Espina-Varona, an award-winning journalist, the first Filipino to win the global prize for independence in Reporters Without Borders, and the recipient of Canadian government Marshall McLuhan Fellowship in 2007. The veteran journalist addressed the communication in media and emphasized key points, the foremost of which is to become a truth-teller. She further emphasized that one must always find the person behind the story because people matter most. “Huwag kalimutan ang puso,” Varona says.

The next session dissected the viral role of in health and sciences. World Health Oganization Philippines Communication Officer for Immunization Mr. Jun Ryan Orbina discussed the importance of communication in public health. He highlighted that effective health communication is accessible, relevant, and actionable. It must be doable, timely, evidence-based, and understandable. Furthermore, Mr. Orbina advised the audience to stick to their messages, to connect with people’s motivation, and narrate stories through powerful keys. Lastly, he emphasized that communicators must keep the message strong yet clear, remind the public of the benefits, and use integrated approaches.

Lastly, civil litigation, arbitration, and adjudication international lawyer Atty. J.R. Robert Real gave a preview of communication in law and policymaking. Atty. Real emphasized that one’s ability to communicate will lead to the opening of doors, influence the policy, empower one to represent the other, and provide capacity to enjoy traveling from one place to another. He also shared tips on mastering communication skills that include practice, proofread, alignment, keeping things simple, and “smile.”

Axis OrComference is hosted by the MHE section under SPEECH 137. The course focuses on group communication, conflict management, and effective group leadership to prepare students in managing organizational functions.

Watch the full conference here: https://www.facebook.com/axis.orcom/videos/793717914663991