BEIJING, CHINA - I arrived a day late for the Journalist Leaders and Gen-Z Young Leaders from “Belt and Road Countries” Seminar, which officially opened on Monday, July 7, 2025, when I went through a 24-hour travel marathon. Between layovers, delays in disembarkation, and airport transfers, I finally made it to Beijing. So, while the others were already settling into Day 1, I was just getting started.
Day 1 (My Version): A glimpse into China’s media landscape
We began with a talk by Ms. Zhou Jihong, director general of the International Cooperation Department of the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA). She walked us through the evolution of China’s media industry and its expanding global partnerships — a rich and eye-opening start to the week.
According to Zhou, NRTA is a ministerial-level central government agenda directly under the State Council of the People’s Republic of China. It is responsible for the administration and supervision of radio, television, and online audiovisual program services in China and the promotion of industrial development.
From establishing the Mainland Daily-China Corporation Broadcasting Station in 1923, “China now has 500 radio and broadcasting stations in 32 provinces. We have streamlined the number of programs and channels, and overcame challenges, including new media.”
Day 2: From Silk Street to ancient secrets
Day 2 took on a lighter, more relaxed tone. We began the day with a visit to Silk Street at Xiushui East Street, Chaoyang District, for a bit of souvenir shopping. As a seasoned ukay-ukay haggling pro, I couldn’t resist getting a good bargain or two.
Lunch followed at Big Pizza. I went straight for my comfort food—pizza and pasta—though the buffet had quite the spread. It was also my first time to try durian pizza (I had three slices!), and surprisingly, it was delicious.
The afternoon brought us to the National Base for International Cultural Trade in Beijing’s Shunyi District. No photos or videos allowed here, but what we saw was unforgettable. We got a rare glimpse of ancient artifacts being lovingly restored—like a pair of shoes from a long-gone dynasty and a 700-year-old decorative piece that looked like a royal carpet. It felt like walking into a sacred chamber of history.
Day 3: Media past, journalism future
Our third day in Beijing started at the Research and Training Institute (RTI) in Xicheng District, where we sat down for a meaningful session with Professor Zhang Yanqiu from the Communication University of China.
She didn’t waste time getting to the heart of things—talking about the role of constructive journalism and why fighting fake news is more urgent than ever.
Professor Zhang didn’t just talk about journalism—she challenged us to rethink it.
She introduced us to Constructive Journalism (CJ), a refreshing and much-needed approach in today’s media climate. Instead of constantly highlighting conflict, fear, and negativity, CJ encourages journalists to look deeper and ask: What’s being done to solve this?
she explained, “not just pointing out what’s wrong, but also exploring what’s being done to make it right.”
CJ doesn’t mean sugarcoating the truth — it means adding depth. It gives stories a richer context and helps the audience think more critically, not just react emotionally. In short, it aims to make news consumers more informed and empowered, not just overwhelmed.
As a media practitioner, it was a powerful reminder: journalism shouldn’t just describe the world, it should help improve it.
In the afternoon, we traveled across the city to CUC’s main campus on Dingfuzhuang East Street in Chaoyang District. If you’ve ever wondered what a media-focused university looks like, imagine a blend of innovation and serenity.
It’s not just a campus—it’s an oasis. Tree-lined paths, gentle ponds, quirky art rocks, and open green lawns—it felt like we stepped into a calm retreat, perfect for creativity to flourish. It also boasts an international hotel.
The Communication University of China (CUC) offers 92 specialized bachelor’s degree programs in media-related fields, along with a range of master’s and doctoral programs.
But the real gem? The Media Museum.
Walking through its halls was like flipping through a living scrapbook of journalism’s evolution. Ancient Chinese printing blocks, vintage cameras, broadcast gear from early radio and TV days, and even old newspapers lovingly preserved—it was breathtaking. Every artifact seemed to whisper stories from the past, each one reminding us of how far we’ve come—and how important our role is moving forward.
But beyond the tours and talks, something even more special is unfolding: conversations over meals, laughter shared during bus rides, stories of home, and the gentle weaving of cultures and experiences. A quiet but meaningful exchange is taking place, and newfound friendships are beginning to grow.
And the best part?
There are still more days to go.
P.S.
Big thanks to Consul Jin Shan of the Chinese Consulate General Davao for arranging everything and for her everyday messages of encouragement. To my SunStar Davao family for the support. Salute to the seminar staff — David, Alex, Jade, and Di — for their constant support and guidance, and to the RTI of NRTA personnel for the warm hospitality. MLSA