Saint Louis University’s (SLU) third-year BA Communication students from the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA), through the Communication Society (ComSoc), conducted the Project MILAN Summit 2026 on 29 October 2026 at the Baguio City Hall Multipurpose Hall, carrying the theme “Empowering Every Voice Through Media and Information Literacy.”
The SLU Glee Club opened with a prayer and the singing of the national anthem, followed by messages from university and government representatives emphasizing critical thinking, responsible communication, and meaningful civic participation.
Representing Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, the Executive Assistant to the SLU President, Joselito Gutierrez, PhD highlighted the responsibility of media and information literacy advocates to uphold human dignity, social responsibility, authenticity, and integrity. He encouraged participants to confront misinformation and exercise moral judgment in their engagement with information.
In a video message, Senator Risa Hontiveros encouraged the youth to remain courageous in expressing their perspectives and actively participating in national issues. She emphasized that young leaders are not alone in pursuing change, reminding them of the importance of community, collaboration, and continued involvement in nation-building.
Meanwhile, Hon. Mauricio G. Domogan underscored the importance of critical thinking in making informed decisions amid the growing infodemic. He reminded participants that technology should serve as a tool that supports human capabilities rather than replace them.
Project MILAN’s overview was presented by Languages and Communication Head Joselita M. Ferrer, LPT, PhD, who emphasized that media and information literacy is a shared responsibility among educators, journalists, communication professionals, and communities. The initiative seeks to build an informed and literate society through collaborative advocacy efforts.
The learning sessions featured speakers from various sectors. Dexter See of Baguio Herald Express discussed keeping pace with rapidly spreading information through accessing, analyzing, evaluating, and responsibly sharing content. He encouraged participants to read beyond headlines and verify information before sharing.
Dr. Sally I. Maximo, RPsy, discussed mindful engagement with information in a digitally connected yet overwhelming world. She highlighted awareness, self-regulation, and responsible sharing as essential in building healthier digital communities.
MIL convener and Communications Professor Janet S. Tibaldo, LPT, PhD focused on responding to viral content, stressing that virality does not guarantee accuracy and that even authentic content may cause harm. She encouraged participants to think critically, judge ethically, and act responsibly.
Dr. Winston Kilimanjaro A. Tiwaquen, BA Comm alumnus and renowned content creator, explored the influence of content creation on media and information literacy, emphasizing audience-centered communication and making messages accessible and relatable.
A panel discussion moderated by Ms. Cristina P. Chua followed the sessions, allowing participants to engage with the speakers. The summit also featured an oath-taking ceremony and the awarding of certificates, facilitated by Ms. Marielgie S. Baldos. ComSoc President Nathaniel Mondero delivered the closing remarks.
The Porject MILAN summit is a community-based MIL advocacy event that brings together diverse stakeholders to promote critical engagement with media and information which aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). (Article and Photos by SLU ComSoc)
